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This Life (ts)
1974 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/ts | Chapter 20
For Whom Will Resurrection Bring Benefits?
MANY questions come up about the resurrection of the dead. Who will be resurrected? Infants? Children? Both the righteous and the wicked? Will those who were married be reunited with their former mates?
The Bible does not go into every detail about the resurrection. However, it contains the marvelous promise that the dead will be raised to life and it gives enough particulars to establish faith in that promise. Should its silence about certain matters keep us from appreciating the soundness of that promise?
In our dealings with fellowmen we do not expect every detail to be spelled out, do we? For example, if you were invited to a banquet, you would not ask the one extending the invitation: ‘Where will all the people sit? Are you prepared to cook for so many people? How can I be sure you will have enough serving utensils and dishes?’ To ask such questions would be an insult, would it not? No one would think of saying to a host: ‘First convince me that I will enjoy myself.’ Having the invitation and knowing its source should be sufficient for one to be confident that things will go well.
Really, no one would appreciate being called upon to explain or prove each statement that he makes. Let us say that an acquaintance described an experience in saving a person from drowning. If he was a respected friend, we would not ask him to prove that he actually did the things he described. To require this would show lack of confidence and trust. It would be no basis for building and maintaining a friendship. Obviously, then, one who would not accept God’s promise of a resurrection without first having every detail clarified could never be counted as His friend. God accepts as his friends only those who exercise faith, who trust his word. (Hebrews 11:6) He provides abundant evidence on which to base such faith, but he does not force people to believe by providing and proving every single detail so that faith is unnecessary.
Thus the absence of certain details serves to test people as to what they are at heart. There are those who have a high opinion of themselves and their own pet ideas, and who follow a course of independence. They do not want to be accountable to anyone. Belief in the resurrection would require them to acknowledge a need to live in harmony with God’s will. But this they do not want to do. Hence, due to the absence of certain details about the resurrection, they may find what they consider to be justification for their disbelief. They are much like the Sadducees in the time of Jesus’ earthly ministry. The Sadducees refused to believe in the resurrection and pointed to what they thought to be an insurmountable problem. They said to Jesus:
“Teacher, Moses wrote us, ‘If a man’s brother dies having a wife, but this one remained childless, his brother should take the wife and raise up offspring from her for his brother.’ Accordingly there were seven brothers; and the first took a wife and died childless. So the second, and the third took her. Likewise even the seven: they did not leave children behind, but died off. Lastly, the woman also died. Consequently, in the resurrection, of which one of them does she become the wife? For the seven got her as wife.”—Luke 20:28-33.
In answering their question, Jesus Christ exposed the wrongness of the Sadducees’ reasoning and emphasized the surety of the resurrection promise. He replied:
“The children of this system of things marry and are given in marriage, but those who have been counted worthy of gaining that system of things and the resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage. . . . But that the dead are raised up even Moses disclosed, in the account about the thornbush, when he calls Jehovah ‘the God of Abraham and God of Isaac and God of Jacob.’ He is a God, not of the dead, but of the living, for they are all living to him.”—Luke 20:34-38.
WHY RESURRECTION HOLDS FORTH NO PROMISE OF MARRIAGE
On the basis of Jesus’ answer to the Sadducees, some may be disturbed about his saying that there will be no marrying among those raised from the dead. They may even think that without marriage the resurrection is something undesirable, that it would not benefit them.
However, when reasoning on Jesus’ reply, we do well to remember that we are imperfect. Our likes and dislikes are largely conditioned by the things to which we have become accustomed. So no one really has any basis for being sure that he would not like the future provisions that God will make for the resurrected ones. Then, too, not all the details have been provided. This has really been a kindness on God’s part. Why, as imperfect humans, we might at first react unfavorably to things that would actually fill our life with joy in a perfect state. Such details therefore might be beyond our present ability to receive. Christ Jesus showed awareness and consideration of the limitations of imperfect humans, as evident from what he said to his disciples on one occasion: “I have many things yet to say to you, but you are not able to bear them at present.”—John 16:12.
Those who will attain a resurrection to immortal spirit life in the heavens have no concept of what it will be like. They cannot compare it with anything they know on earth. Their bodies will be completely different. All sex distinctions belonging to humans will be things of the past for them. So there can be no marrying among those raised to spirit life in the heavens because they all together as a body become the “bride” of Christ.
But what about those who are brought back from the dead to live on earth? Will they be reunited with former marriage mates? No statement in the Bible indicates that this will be the case. The Scriptures definitely show that death dissolves the marriage. Romans 7:2, 3 reads: “A married woman is bound by law to her husband while he is alive; but if her husband dies, she is discharged from the law of her husband . . . so that she is not an adulteress if she becomes another man’s.”
Hence, if a person chooses to remarry now, he does not have to worry about the effect this might have on a resurrected mate in the future. If singleness is not for him, he does not have to struggle to maintain it in the hope of being reunited in marriage with his former mate in the resurrection. Surely, then, it was a kindness on God’s part not to require former marriage relationships to be in force at the time of a person’s resurrection, as the Sadducees erroneously thought.
While we do not know where on earth or with whom the resurrected ones will live, we can rest assured that whatever arrangement exists will contribute to the happiness of the resurrected ones. God’s gifts, including the resurrection, will wholly satisfy the desires and needs of obedient mankind. His gifts are perfect, flawless. (James 1:17) The generous gifts that we have already received as expressions of his love convince us of that.
CHILDREN AND OTHERS TO BE RAISED
What of children who die? Will they too return to life when righteousness prevails on this earth? Surely that is what loving parents would want for any children that they may have lost in death. And there is solid basis for entertaining such a hope.
Among those reported in the Bible as having been resurrected were children. The daughter of Jairus, who lived in Galilee, was about twelve years of age; Jesus brought her back to life. (Luke 8:42, 54, 55) The boys who were raised from the dead by the prophets Elijah and Elisha may have been older or younger. (1 Kings 17:20-23; 2 Kings 4:32-37) In view of these past resurrections of children, is it not right to expect that a large-scale resurrection of children will take place during Jesus’ rule as king? Most assuredly! We can be certain that whatever Jehovah God has purposed in this regard will be the just, wise and loving thing for all concerned.
The Bible reveals that by far the majority of mankind—men, women and children—will be raised from the dead. As the apostle Paul affirmed in his defense before Governor Felix: “I have hope toward God . . . that there is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous.” (Acts 24:15) The “righteous” are those who lived in God’s favor. The “unrighteous” are the rest of mankind. But does that mean that every dead individual will have a resurrection? No, it does not.
THOSE WHO WILL NOT BE RESURRECTED
Certain ones have been judged by God as undeserving of a resurrection. Regarding those who in the present time refuse to submit to Christ’s rulership and fail to do good to his “brothers” on earth, the Bible says: “These will depart into everlasting cutting-off.” (Matthew 25:46) They will experience this everlasting cutting-off when Jesus Christ, along with his angelic forces, destroys all opposers of his righteous rule in the “great tribulation,” now near.
As to any in line for the kingdom of the heavens who prove unfaithful to God, we are told: “There is no longer any sacrifice for sins left, but there is a certain fearful expectation of judgment and there is a fiery jealousy that is going to consume those in opposition.”—Hebrews 10:26, 27.
Also, there are classes of people who are spoken of as experiencing an eternal destruction. Jesus Christ indicated that the unrepentant Pharisees and other religious leaders of his day as a class had sinned against the holy spirit. He said of such sin: “Every sort of sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the spirit will not be forgiven. For example, whoever speaks a word against the Son of man, it will be forgiven him; but whoever speaks against the holy spirit, it will not be forgiven him, no, not in this system of things nor in that to come.” (Matthew 12:31, 32) There being no forgiveness for such sin, all guilty of denying obvious manifestations of God’s spirit pay the penalty for such unforgivable sin by remaining dead forever.
Aside from what the Bible says specifically about those who have perished everlastingly, we are in no position to say that particular individuals will not be raised from the dead. The fact that some will not be, however, should serve as a warning to us to avoid a course leading to divine disapproval.
A RESURRECTION OF JUDGMENT
The fact that the majority of mankind will be raised from the dead is truly an undeserved kindness on God’s part. It is something that God does not have to do, but his love and compassion for humankind moved him to lay the basis for it by providing his Son as a ransom. (John 3:16) That any humans would fail to appreciate their being raised from the dead with the prospect of eternal life is, therefore, hard to imagine. Yet there will be some who will not develop full, unbreakable, loyal attachment to Jehovah God. They will therefore lose out on the lasting blessings that being brought back to life will offer them.
Jesus Christ called attention to this when he spoke of a “resurrection of judgment” and set it in contrast with the “resurrection of life.” (John 5:29) The fact that life is here contrasted with judgment makes it clear that a condemnatory judgment is involved. What is this condemnation?
To understand this, contrast first the situation of those resurrected to earthly life with that of those resurrected to heavenly life. The Bible says of those sharing in the “first resurrection”: “Happy and holy is anyone having part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no authority.” (Revelation 20:6) Raised to immortal life in the heavens, the 144,000 joint heirs of Christ cannot die. Their loyalty to God is so certain that he can entrust them with an indestructible life. But this is not the case with all those raised to life on earth. There will be some of these latter ones who will become disloyal to God. The condemnatory judgment passed on them for unfaithfulness will be “second death,” a death from the “authority” of which no recovery is possible.
Yet why would anyone end up following a course leading to condemnatory judgment when he has been granted the undeserved favor of being raised from the dead?
The answer to this question can be better understood in the light of what Jesus Christ said about people who would be resurrected. Addressing his unbelieving fellow countrymen, Jesus said:
“Men of Nineveh will rise up in the judgment with this generation and will condemn it; because they repented at what Jonah preached, but, look! something more than Jonah is here. The queen of the south will be raised up in the judgment with this generation and will condemn it; because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, but, look! something more than Solomon is here.”—Matthew 12:41, 42; Luke 11:31, 32.
With reference to a city that would stubbornly refuse to listen to the message of truth, Jesus noted:
“It will be more endurable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on Judgment Day than for that city.”—Matthew 10:15; see also Matthew 11:21-24.
How would it be more endurable on Judgment Day for Sodom and Gomorrah? How would the “queen of the south” and the Ninevites who responded to Jonah’s preaching condemn the generation of Jesus’ fellow countrymen?
This will be in the way such resurrected ones respond to the help given during the reign of Jesus Christ and his 144,000 associate king-priests. That period of rulership will be a “Judgment Day” in that it will provide all persons opportunity to demonstrate whether they want to submit to God’s arrangements. In the case of those like the unbelieving inhabitants of cities who witnessed the powerful works of Jesus Christ, this is not going to be easy.
It is going to be hard for them to recognize humbly that they were wrong in rejecting Jesus as the Messiah and then to have to submit themselves to him as their King. Pride and stubbornness will make submission more difficult for them than for the inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrah, who, while sinful, never rejected grand opportunities like those set before persons who witnessed the works of Jesus Christ. The better response of the resurrected Ninevites and that of the queen of Sheba will serve as a reproof to the resurrected generation of Jesus’ fellow countrymen living in the time of his earthly ministry. It will be much easier for these Ninevites and similar ones to accept the rule of someone toward whom they had never been prejudiced.
Those who positively refuse to make progress in the way of righteousness under Christ’s kingdom will experience the condemnatory judgment of “second death.” In certain cases this will happen before they reach human perfection.
Furthermore, others, after having been brought to human perfection, will unappreciatively fail to demonstrate loyal devotion to Jehovah God when put to the test. Following the thousand-year reign of Christ, Satan the Devil will be released for a short time from his confinement in the abyss. As he attacked God’s sovereignty to seduce Eve, who then persuaded Adam, he will again seek to get perfect humans to rebel against God’s rulership. Of Satan’s attempt and its outcome, Revelation 20:7-10, 14, 15 says:
“As soon as the thousand years have been ended, Satan will be let loose out of his prison, and he will go out to mislead those nations in the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together for the war. The number of these is as the sand of the sea. And they advanced over the breadth of the earth and encircled the camp of the holy ones and the beloved city. But fire came down out of heaven and devoured them. And the Devil who was misleading them was hurled into the lake of fire and sulphur . . . This means the second death, the lake of fire. Furthermore, whoever was not found written in the book of life was hurled into the lake of fire.” This signifies their unending destruction or annihilation. Thus these unfaithful ones will have what Jesus called “a resurrection of judgment,” a condemnatory judgment.
On the other hand, those who refuse to join Satan in rebellion will be judged worthy of receiving everlasting life. They will forever rejoice in having life as perfect humans, expressing love and being loved for all eternity. Theirs will prove to be a “resurrection of life.”
Even now we can start to develop the qualities that God looks for in those whom he recognizes as his approved servants. If we show ourselves appreciative for all that he has done and get an advance start in the way of righteousness, we can have the wonderful prospect of having far more than the present life. Yes, we can have life everlasting in perfection, free from all sorrow and pain! |
Supreme Court Rules for Freedom of Speech | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102003004 | Supreme Court Rules for Freedom of Speech
THE DECISIVE DAY came on June 17, 2002, when the Supreme Court published its written opinions. What was the decision? Newspaper headlines told the story. The New York Times proclaimed: “Court Strikes Down Curb on Visits by Jehovah’s Witnesses.” The Columbus Dispatch of Ohio stated: “High Court Invalidates Permit Requirement.” The Plain Dealer of Cleveland, Ohio, simply said: “Solicitors Don’t Need OK From City Hall.” The Op/Ed page of USA Today proclaimed: “Free Speech Wins.”
The lower-court decisions against Jehovah’s Witnesses were reversed by a vote of 8 to 1! The official 18-page Opinion of the Court was written by Justice John Paul Stevens. The decision was a sweeping reaffirmation of the First Amendment protection accorded the public ministry of Jehovah’s Witnesses. In its review the Court explained that the Witnesses did not apply for a permit because they claim that “they derive their authority to preach from Scripture.” Then the Court quoted the testimony cited in their brief: “For us to seek a permit from a municipality to preach we feel would almost be an insult to God.”
The Opinion of the Court stated: “For over 50 years, the Court has invalidated restrictions on door-to-door canvassing and pamphleteering. It is more than historical accident that most of these cases involved First Amendment challenges brought by Jehovah’s Witnesses, because door-to-door canvassing is mandated by their religion. As we noted in Murdock v. Pennsylvania, . . . (1943), the Jehovah’s Witnesses ‘claim to follow the example of Paul, teaching “publicly, and from house to house.” Acts 20:20. They take literally the mandate of the Scriptures, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” Mark 16:15. In doing so they believe that they are obeying a commandment of God.’”
The Opinion then quoted again from the 1943 case: “This form of religious activity occupies the same high estate under the First Amendment as do worship in the churches and preaching from the pulpits. It has the same claim to protection as the more orthodox and conventional exercises of religion.” Quoting a 1939 case, the Opinion stated: “To require a censorship through license which makes impossible the free and unhampered distribution of pamphlets strikes at the very heart of the constitutional guarantees.”—Italics theirs.
The Court then made a significant observation: “The cases demonstrate that efforts of the Jehovah’s Witnesses to resist speech regulation have not been a struggle for their rights alone.” The Opinion explained that the Witnesses “are not the only ‘little people’ who face the risk of silencing by regulations like the Village’s.”
The Opinion went on to state that the ordinance “is offensive—not only to the values protected by the First Amendment, but to the very notion of a free society—that in the context of everyday public discourse a citizen must first inform the government of her desire to speak to her neighbors and then obtain a permit to do so. . . . A law requiring a permit to engage in such speech constitutes a dramatic departure from our national heritage and constitutional tradition.” The Opinion then spoke of “the pernicious effect of such a permit requirement.”
Threat of Crimes
What about the view that the permit is a safeguard against burglars and other criminals? The Court argued: “Despite recognition of these interests as legitimate, our precedent is clear that there must be a balance between these interests and the effect of the regulations on First Amendment rights.”
The Court’s Opinion continued: “It seems unlikely that the absence of a permit would preclude criminals from knocking on doors and engaging in conversations not covered by the ordinance. They might, for example, ask for directions or permission to use the telephone, . . . or they might register under a false name with impunity.”
Harking back to decisions of the 1940’s, the Court wrote: “The rhetoric used in the World War II-era opinions that repeatedly saved petitioners’ [Watch Tower Society] coreligionists from petty prosecutions reflected the Court’s evaluation of the First Amendment freedoms that are implicated in this case.”
What was the Court’s conclusion? “The judgment of the Court of Appeals is reversed, and the case is remanded for further proceedings consistent with this opinion. It is so ordered.”
Thus, the end of the matter was, as stated in the Chicago Sun-Times, “Court Backs Jehovah’s Witnesses,” and that by a majority of 8 to 1.
What of the Future?
How have Jehovah’s Witnesses in the nearby Wellsville Congregation viewed this victory in the Supreme Court? There certainly is no reason to boast about it at the expense of the inhabitants of Stratton. The Witnesses harbor no ill will toward the good people of the village. Gregory Kuhar, a local Witness, said: “This court case was not something that we wanted to do. The ordinance in itself was just wrong. What we did was not just for us, but for everyone.”
The facts show that the Witnesses have gone out of their way not to provoke the local people. Gene Koontz, another Witness, explained: “The last time we preached in Stratton was March 7, 1998—well over four years ago.” He added: “I was personally told that I would be arrested. We’ve had a lot of reports during the years of police threatening us with arrest. Then when we asked to see the ordinance in print, we never got an answer.”
Koontz added: “We would rather have good relations with our neighbors. If some do not want us to visit them, we respect that decision. But there are others who are friendly and who welcome a conversation about the Bible.”
Gregory Kuhar explained: “We didn’t pursue this case to antagonize the people of Stratton. We simply wanted to establish legally our freedom of speech under the Constitution.”
He continued: “Eventually, we hope to go back to Stratton. I’d be happy to be the first one to knock on a door when we return. In accordance with Christ’s command, return we must.”
The outcome of “Watchtower v. Village of Stratton” has had far-reaching effects. After learning of the Supreme Court decision, a number of U.S. municipal officials recognized that local ordinances could no longer be used to restrict the evangelizing work of Jehovah’s Witnesses. To date, door-to-door preaching difficulties have been resolved in approximately 90 communities in the United States.
[Box on page 9]
“JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES HAVE DONE IT AGAIN”
Charles C. Haynes, senior scholar and director of education programs at the First Amendment Center, wrote the above words on the Freedom Forum Web site, under the input “The Freedom of Faith.” Haynes continued: “Last week [the Witnesses] chalked up their 48th Supreme Court victory—an extraordinary line of cases that have significantly expanded First Amendment protections for all Americans.” He cautioned: “Remember this: If the government can restrict the freedom of one faith, it has the power to restrict the freedom of any faith—or all faiths. . . . Of course, people have a right not to listen—and to close the door. But the government shouldn’t have the authority to decide who gets to knock on the door. So two cheers for the Supreme Court.”
Haynes concludes: “We all owe the Jehovah’s Witnesses a debt of gratitude. No matter how many times they’re insulted, run out of town, or even physically attacked, they keep on fighting for their (and thus our) freedom of religion. And when they win, we all win.”
[Box/Pictures on page 10, 11]
THE SUPREME COURT DECISION—WHAT THE PRESS SAID
◼ “Court Backs Jehovah’s Witnesses; Door-to-Door Ministry Doesn’t Require a Permit
In a life of knocking on doors as Jehovah’s Witnesses, [the Witnesses] always believed they had God behind them. Now they have the U.S. Supreme Court, as well.”—Chicago Sun-Times, June 18, 2002.
◼ “Free Speech Wins
The next time some Jehovah’s Witnesses interrupt your dinner, you might consider thanking them. In gritty dedication to their religious principles, this out-of-the-mainstream denomination of scarcely 1 million members [in the United States] has probably done more than any other institution to secure freedom of speech for individual Americans. . . .
“For the Witnesses, going to the high court is a familiar routine. In more than two dozen cases over 65 years, they’ve effectively fought against the tyranny of the majority.”—USA TODAY, June 18, 2002.
◼ “Door-to-Door Soliciting Ruled Constitutional Right. Decision a Victory for Jehovah’s Witnesses
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled Monday that politicians, religious groups, the Girl Scouts and others have a constitutional right to go door-to-door promoting their causes without first getting permission from local officials.”—San Francisco Chronicle, June 18, 2002.
◼ “Supreme Court: You Can’t Keep Jehovah’s Witnesses, Girl Scouts From Knocking
WASHINGTON—The Constitution protects the right of missionaries, politicians and others to knock on doors without first getting permission from local authorities, the Supreme Court ruled today. . . .
“By a vote of 8 to 1, the court reasoned that the First Amendment right to free speech includes the eninputment to take a message directly to someone’s door.”—Star Tribune, Minneapolis, June 18, 2002.
[Picture on page 9]
Justice Stevens
[Credit Line]
Stevens: Collection, The Supreme Court Historical Society/Joseph Bailey |
How Do I Become One of Jehovah’s Witnesses? | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502016154 | How Do I Become One of Jehovah’s Witnesses?
The steps needed to become one of Jehovah’s Witnesses are described by Jesus and can be found at Matthew 28:19, 20. That passage outlines what a person needs to do to become a disciple of Christ, which involves speaking, or bearing witness, about Jehovah.
Step 1: Learn what the Bible teaches. Jesus instructed his followers to “make disciples . . . , teaching them.” (Matthew 28:19, 20) The word translated “disciple” literally means “a learner.” The Bible, especially the teachings of Jesus Christ found there, contains the information you need in order to have a happy and fulfilling life. (2 Timothy 3:16, 17) We are glad to help you learn what the Bible teaches by means of our free Bible study program.—Matthew 10:7, 8; 1 Thessalonians 2:13.
Step 2: Put what you learn into practice. Jesus said that those who learn must also “observe all the things [he] commanded.” (Matthew 28:20) This means that your study of the Bible must be more than an intellectual exercise—it may call on you to make significant changes in your thinking and behavior. (Acts 10:42; Ephesians 4:22-29; Hebrews 10:24, 25) Those who observe Jesus’ commands are then moved to make a personal decision to follow him by dedicating their lives to Jehovah God.—Matthew 16:24.
Step 3: Get baptized. (Matthew 28:19) In the Bible, baptism is compared to a burial. (Compare Romans 6:2-4.) It serves as a symbol of dying to a past course of life and beginning a new one. Your baptism, then, is a public acknowledgment that you have completed the first two steps described by Jesus and are asking God for a clean conscience.—Hebrews 9:14; 1 Peter 3:21.
How will I know if I’m ready for baptism?
Speak to the congregation elders. They will talk with you to ensure that you understand what is involved, are applying what you have learned, and have dedicated yourself to God of your own free will.—Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:1-3.
Do these steps apply to children of Witness parents?
Yes. We raise our children “in the discipline and admonition of Jehovah,” just as the Bible commands. (Ephesians 6:4) However, as they grow, they must make a personal decision to learn, accept, and apply what the Bible teaches before they can qualify for baptism. (Romans 12:2) Ultimately, each person must make his own choice concerning worship.—Romans 14:12; Galatians 6:5. |
Liberation (dt)
1980 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/brochures-and-booklets/liberation-dt | input Page/Publishers’ Page
The Path of Divine Truth Leading to Liberation |
Examining the Scriptures—2024
2023 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/brochures-and-booklets/examining-the-scriptures/examining-the-scriptures-2024 | January
Monday, January 1
I am sending Timothy to you, because he is my beloved and faithful child in the Lord.—1 Cor. 4:17.
What made Timothy a useful servant of Jehovah? His outstanding Christian qualities. (Phil. 2:19-22) From the apostle Paul’s description of Timothy, we can see that he was humble, loyal, diligent, and dependable. He cared deeply about the brothers. As a result, Paul loved Timothy and did not hesitate to entrust him with challenging assignments. Similarly, we endear ourselves to Jehovah and are more useful to the congregation when we cultivate qualities that he loves. (Ps. 25:9; 138:6) So prayerfully consider which aspects of your personality need improvement. Select one specific quality that you would like to focus on. Could you cultivate greater empathy? Do you need to be more peaceable and forgiving? You may find it helpful to ask a trusted friend to suggest ways you could improve.—Prov. 27:6. w22.04 23 ¶4-5
Tuesday, January 2
Let each one examine his own actions.—Gal. 6:4.
Jehovah wants us to be happy. We know this because joy is an aspect of the fruitage of his holy spirit. (Gal. 5:22) Since there is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving, we feel a deep sense of joy when we are fully engaged in the Christian ministry and are helping our brothers in various ways. (Acts 20:35) As recorded in today’s text, the apostle Paul mentions two factors that will help us remain joyful. First, our goal should be to give Jehovah our best. If we are giving him our very best, we should be happy. (Matt. 22:36-38) Second, we should avoid comparing ourselves with others. Whatever our health, training, or natural ability enables us to accomplish, we should be grateful to Jehovah. On the other hand, if others are more effective in some aspect of the ministry than we are, we should rejoice that they are using their talents to praise Jehovah. w22.04 10 ¶1-2
Wednesday, January 3
Your deliverance is getting near.—Luke 21:28.
The end of false religion will come suddenly, catching the world by surprise. (Rev. 18:8-10) The destruction of Babylon the Great will be world-shaking and may cause hardships, but God’s people will have at least two reasons to rejoice. This long-standing enemy of Jehovah God will be gone forever, and our deliverance from this wicked system of things will be at hand! Daniel foretold that “true knowledge” would “become abundant.” And indeed it has! We have received insight into prophecies about our time. (Dan. 12:4, 9, 10) The accuracy of these prophecies leaves us in awe of Jehovah and his inspired Word. (Isa. 46:10; 55:11) So continue to fortify your faith by diligently studying the Scriptures and by helping others to develop an approved relationship with Jehovah. He will safeguard all who fully lean on him, and he will give them “continuous peace.”—Isa. 26:3. w22.07 6-7 ¶16-17
Thursday, January 4
They gathered them together to the place that is called in Hebrew Armageddon.—Rev. 16:16.
The book of Revelation reveals that God’s heavenly Kingdom has been established and that Satan has been expelled from heaven. (Rev. 12:1-9) That expulsion brings relief to the heavens, but it creates challenges for us. Why? Because Satan’s anger is focused on those who faithfully serve Jehovah here on earth. (Rev. 12:12, 15, 17) How can we remain steadfast in the face of Satan’s attacks? (Rev. 13:10) One thing that will help us is to know what the future holds. For example, in Revelation, the apostle John describes some of the blessings that we will soon enjoy. Among those blessings will be the elimination of God’s enemies. In the very first verse, Revelation tells us that the information we are about to read is being presented “in signs,” that is, in symbolic language.—Rev. 1:1. w22.05 8 ¶1-3
Friday, January 5
In the final part of the days I will bring you against my land so that the nations may know me when I sanctify myself through you before their eyes, O Gog.—Ezek. 38:16.
The firm stand of Jehovah’s faithful servants will provoke the rage of those who oppose Jehovah. As a result, a coalition of nations will attack God’s people all over the earth. This act of mad aggression is described prophetically as the attack of Gog of Magog. (Ezek. 38:14, 15) How will Jehovah react to this vicious attack? He tells us: “My great rage will flare up.” (Ezek. 38:18, 21-23) Revelation chapter 19 describes what happens next. Jehovah sends forth His Son to defend His people and to defeat their enemies. Jesus will be joined in this counterattack by “the armies in heaven”—the faithful angels together with the 144,000. (Rev. 17:14; 19:11-15) What is the outcome of this war? The total annihilation of all humans and organizations opposing Jehovah!—Rev. 19:19-21. w22.05 17 ¶9-10
Saturday, January 6
I will put enmity between you and the woman.—Gen. 3:15.
Soon after Adam and Eve sinned, Jehovah gave hope to their descendants by means of a remarkable prophecy. What he said is recorded at Genesis 3:15: “I will put enmity between you and the woman and between your offspring and her offspring. He will crush your head, and you will strike him in the heel.” The prophecy appears in the first book of the Bible. But in one way or another, all the other books of the Bible relate to it. Just as the spine of a printed book binds all the pages together, the words recorded at Genesis 3:15 bind the output of every book of the Bible into one united message, namely, that a Deliverer would be sent to destroy the Devil and all his wicked followers. What a blessing that will be for those who love Jehovah! A study of the Bible will help us see how the prophecy is fulfilled and how we can benefit from it. w22.07 14 ¶1-3
Sunday, January 7
Jehovah himself gives wisdom.—Prov. 2:6.
Ask Jehovah to give you the wisdom you need to help your children develop love for him. (Jas. 1:5) He is the most qualified Person to give advice. There are a number of reasons why. Consider two. First, Jehovah has the most experience at being a parent. (Ps. 36:9) And second, the wise advice he gives always brings benefits. (Isa. 48:17) By means of his Word and his organization, Jehovah provides an abundance of Bible-based spiritual food that can help you raise your children to love Jehovah. (Matt. 24:45) For example, you can find much practical advice in the article series “Help for the Family,” which appeared in print for a number of years in the Awake! magazine and is now available on our website. Also, many videos published on jw.org feature interviews and dramatizations that can help parents apply Jehovah’s counsel as they raise their children.—Prov. 2:4, 5. w22.05 27 ¶4-5
Monday, January 8
If errors were what you watch, O Jah, then who . . . could stand?—Ps. 130:3.
Jehovah is truly the greatest Forgiver in the universe. First, he is always ready to forgive. Second, he knows us through and through. He is perfectly familiar with our makeup, and he is in the ideal position to determine whether we are truly repentant. And third, when Jehovah forgives us, he wipes the slate clean, so to speak. This allows us to have a clean conscience and enjoy his favor. Of course, as long as we are imperfect, we will continue to sin. However, we can gain comfort from the words found in Insight on the Scriptures, Volume 2, page 771: “Since Jehovah mercifully considers the fleshly weakness of his servants, they need not be in a constant state of remorse due to their errors resulting from inherent imperfection. (Ps 103:8-14; 130:3) If they are conscientiously walking in God’s ways, they may be joyful. (Php 4:4-6; 1Jo 3:19-22).” w22.06 7 ¶18-19
Tuesday, January 9
You will be brought before kings and governors for the sake of my name.—Luke 21:12.
Fear of opposition from governments is not the only weapon Satan uses. For some, fear of how family members will react to the truth is greater than any physical abuse. They love their relatives very much and want them to come to know and love Jehovah. It pains them to hear their relatives speak disrespectfully of the true God and of his worshippers. In some cases, however, relatives who were initially opposed later came into the truth. But suppose our family members cut all ties with us because of our new beliefs? How will we react? We can take comfort from the beautiful truth reflected at Psalm 27:10. When we remember just how much Jehovah loves us, we feel secure in the face of opposition. And we are confident that he will reward us for our endurance. Jehovah will care for our physical, emotional, and spiritual needs far better than anyone else can! w22.06 16-17 ¶11-13
Wednesday, January 10
Christ suffered for you, leaving a model for you to follow his steps closely.—1 Pet. 2:21.
During his ministry, Jesus was falsely accused of being a man who was a drunkard, a glutton, an agent of the Devil, a Sabbath breaker, and even a blasphemer of God. (Matt. 11:19; 26:65; Luke 11:15; John 9:16) Yet, Jesus did not retaliate with angry words. Like Jesus, we should never retaliate even if spoken to harshly. (1 Pet. 2:22, 23) Of course, showing such restraint is not easy. (Jas. 3:2) What can help? Try to look beyond the response of a householder who speaks negatively. A brother named Sam says, “I try to focus on the householder’s need to hear the truth and his potential to change.” Sometimes a householder is angry simply because we came at a bad time. When we are confronted by someone who is upset, we can say a brief prayer, asking Jehovah to help us remain calm and hold back from saying anything unkind or disrespectful. w22.04 6 ¶8-9
Thursday, January 11
Draw close to God.—Jas. 4:8.
An important way to help children draw close to Jehovah is by studying the Bible with them. (2 Tim. 3:14-17) Yet, the Bible reveals another way that young ones can learn about Jehovah. In the book of Proverbs, a father evidently reminds his son never to lose sight of Jehovah’s qualities, which are revealed in creation. (Prov. 3:19-21) Parents, you likely enjoy spending time outdoors with your young ones. Use that time to help your children see the connection between “the things made” and Jehovah’s marvelous qualities. (Rom. 1:20) Note how Jesus used creation to teach. On one occasion, he asked his disciples to observe the ravens and the lilies. (Luke 12:24, 27-30) He taught his disciples a powerful lesson about their heavenly Father’s generosity and kindness: Jehovah will feed and clothe his faithful servants as he does the ravens and the flowers in the field. w23.03 20-21 ¶1-4
Friday, January 12
Whatever you ask in my name, I will do this, so that the Father may be glorified in connection with the Son.—John 14:13.
We thank Jehovah that we can pray to him through his Son. Jesus is the channel that Jehovah uses to grant our requests. Jehovah listens to and answers prayers that are offered in Jesus’ name and forgives our sins on the basis of Jesus’ ransom sacrifice. (Rom. 5:1) The Scriptures describe Jesus as our “high priest [sitting] at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens.” (Heb. 8:1) Jesus is our “helper with the Father.” (1 John 2:1) How thankful we are to Jehovah for providing us with a sympathetic High Priest who understands our weaknesses and who “pleads for us”! (Rom. 8:34; Heb. 4:15) Without Jesus’ sacrifice we would not be able to approach Jehovah in prayer. No doubt you would agree that we can never adequately express our gratitude for the precious gift that Jehovah has given us—the gift of his dear Son! w22.07 23 ¶10-12
Saturday, January 13
The trustworthy person keeps a confidence.—Prov. 11:13.
A trustworthy person strives to keep his promises and tells the truth. (Ps. 15:4) People know that they can depend on him. We want our brothers and sisters to feel that way about us. We cannot force others to trust us. Trust must be earned. It has been said that trust is like money. Earning it is hard; losing it is easy. Jehovah certainly has earned our trust. “Everything he does is trustworthy.” (Ps. 33:4) And he expects us to imitate him. (Eph. 5:1) How thankful we are that Jehovah has drawn us to a brotherhood made up of people who are loving and trustworthy! We all have a responsibility to earn the trust of our brothers and sisters. As we individually work at showing love, humility, discernment, honesty, and self-control, we contribute to a spirit of trust in our congregation. May we imitate our God, Jehovah, and keep proving that we are trustworthy. w22.09 8 ¶1-2; 13 ¶17
Sunday, January 14
Jehovah watches.—Ps. 33:18.
Although we are part of a large family of worshippers, we may occasionally feel alone and may struggle with negative emotions, thinking that we have to deal with these feelings on our own. Jehovah never wants us to feel that way. Consider how he dealt with the prophet Elijah. Jehovah encouraged Elijah to talk. Twice He asked Elijah: “What are you doing here?” (1 Ki. 19:9, 13) Each time, Jehovah listened as Elijah poured out his heart. He also assured Elijah that he had many fellow worshippers. (1 Ki. 19:11, 12, 18) No doubt, Elijah felt relieved after pouring out his heart to Jehovah and hearing His response. Jehovah gave Elijah several important assignments. He asked him to anoint Hazael as king over Syria, Jehu as king over Israel, and Elisha as prophet. (1 Ki. 19:15, 16) By giving Elijah these assignments, Jehovah helped him to focus on positive things. God also provided him with a close companion, Elisha. w22.08 8 ¶3; 9 ¶5
Monday, January 15
Keep encouraging one another and building one another up.—1 Thess. 5:11.
Has your congregation ever built or renovated a Kingdom Hall? If so, no doubt you remember your first meeting in the new facility. You were so grateful to Jehovah. In fact, you may have been so choked up with emotion that you could hardly sing the opening song. Our well-built Kingdom Halls bring praise to Jehovah. But we bring even greater praise to him when we engage in another kind of building work. That work involves something more valuable than literal buildings. It involves building up the people who come to those places of worship. The apostle Paul had in mind this type of figurative building program when he wrote the words found in today’s text. The apostle Paul is an excellent example of someone who knew how to build up his fellow believers. He had empathy for them. We can imitate him and thus build up our brothers and sisters today.—1 Cor. 11:1. w22.08 20 ¶1-2
Tuesday, January 16
Walk worthily of Jehovah.—Col. 1:10.
A Christian who wants to be righteous in God’s eyes will be completely honest in all his business dealings. A righteous man also loves justice—he hates to see someone treated unfairly. And “in order to please [Jehovah] fully,” a person who is truly righteous considers how He will view the decisions he makes. The Bible describes Jehovah as the Source of righteousness. For that reason, he is called “the dwelling place of righteousness.” (Jer. 50:7) As the Creator, Jehovah is the only one who can properly set the standards for what is right and what is wrong. His sense of what is right and what is wrong is far above our own view. (Prov. 14:12; Isa. 55:8, 9) However, because we are made in God’s image, we are able to live by his standards of righteousness. (Gen. 1:27) And we love to do so. Our love for our Father moves us to imitate him to the best of our ability.—Eph. 5:1. w22.08 27 ¶5-6
Wednesday, January 17
Keep perceiving what the will of Jehovah is.—Eph. 5:17.
When we are troubled or discouraged, we might feel the need for some sort of diversion to escape our problems. That is understandable, but we must be careful not to be drawn into doing something that Jehovah hates. (Eph. 5:10-12, 15, 16) In his letter to the Philippians, the apostle Paul urged Christians to continue considering things that are “righteous, . . . chaste, . . . lovable, [and] virtuous.” (Phil. 4:8) Although Paul was not writing specifically on the subject of entertainment, what he wrote should influence the pastimes that we choose. Try this: Wherever the generic word “things” appears in the verse, substitute it with the word “songs,” “movies,” “novels,” or “video games.” Doing this can help you to discern which ones may be acceptable in God’s view and which ones may not be. We want to bring our life into harmony with Jehovah’s lofty standards.—Ps. 119:1-3. w22.10 9 ¶11-12
Thursday, January 18
He knew what was in man.—John 2:25.
In their former life, some of the “unrighteous” practiced horrible, vile things. They will therefore need to be taught how to live according to Jehovah’s righteous standards. To meet that need, God’s Kingdom will direct the greatest educational program in all human history. Who will teach the unrighteous? The great crowd and the resurrected righteous ones. In order for the unrighteous to have their names written in the book of life, they will need to develop a relationship with Jehovah and dedicate themselves to him. The progress of all these unrighteous ones will be followed with great interest by Jesus Christ and his fellow judges. (Rev. 20:4) Any who refuse to respond favorably to such help will be removed—even though they may be 100 years of age. (Isa. 65:20) Jehovah and Jesus can read hearts and will see to it that no one will be allowed to cause any ruin in the new world.—Isa. 11:9; 60:18; 65:25. w22.09 17 ¶11-12
Friday, January 19
Let every person be in subjection to the superior authorities.—Rom. 13:1.
In this verse, the term “superior authorities” refers to human rulers who have power and control over others. Christians are subject to these secular authorities. These rulers maintain public order, enforce the law, and at times even come to the defense of Jehovah’s people. (Rev. 12:16) Thus, we are commanded to render them the taxes, tributes, fear, and honor that they demand. (Rom. 13:7) However, those secular governments have authority only because Jehovah allows them to have it. Jesus made that principle clear when he was interrogated by Roman Governor Pontius Pilate. When Pilate referred to the authority he had either to spare Jesus’ life or to have him put to death, Jesus told him: “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been granted to you from above.” (John 19:11) As was the case with Pilate, the authority of all human rulers and politicians today is limited. w22.10 14 ¶6
Saturday, January 20
The wicked will be no more.—Ps. 37:10.
King David was inspired to write about what life would be like when a future wise and faithful king would sit on the throne. (Ps. 37:10, 11, 29) We often read Psalm 37:11 to others when discussing the coming Paradise. That is certainly justified because Jesus quoted that text in his Sermon on the Mount, indicating that it will have a future fulfillment. (Matt. 5:5) But David’s words also revealed what life would be like in King Solomon’s day. When Solomon ruled Israel, God’s people enjoyed special peace and prosperity in a land “flowing with milk and honey.” God had said: “If you continue walking in my statutes . . . , I will put peace in the land, and you will lie down with no one making you afraid.” (Lev. 20:24; 26:3, 6) Those promises came true during Solomon’s reign. (1 Chron. 22:9; 29:26-28) The words found at Psalm 37:10, 11, 29 had an ancient fulfillment and will also be fulfilled in the future. w22.12 10 ¶8
Sunday, January 21
Those who keep firm hold of [wisdom] will be called happy.—Prov. 3:18.
As true Christians, we must follow direction. The Bible offers this practical advice for success: “By wise guidance you will wage your war, and through many advisers there is success.” (Prov. 24:6, ftn.) Consider how applying this principle leads to success in our preaching and teaching work. Rather than carry out the ministry in our own way, we try to follow the suggestions we have been given. We receive wise guidance at our Christian meetings, where experienced advisers give Bible-based talks and presentations to train us. In addition, Jehovah’s organization provides useful tools—publications and videos—that can help people to understand the Bible. How grateful we are for the sound advice found in God’s Word! Where would we be without it? Let us be determined always to act on the wisdom that Jehovah provides.—Prov. 3:13-17. w22.10 23 ¶18-19
Monday, January 22
How sweet your sayings are to my palate, more so than honey to my mouth!—Ps. 119:103.
Just as we are nourished physically when we eat food and digest it, we are nourished spiritually when we study God’s Word and meditate on it. When it comes to God’s Word, Jehovah wants us to absorb it. We can do so by means of prayer, reading, and meditation. First, we pray to prepare our heart to receive God’s thoughts. Then, we read a Bible passage. Next, we pause in order to meditate, to think deeply, about what we have read. What will be the outcome? The more we meditate, the more our figurative heart will absorb God’s Word. Why is it vital to read the Bible and meditate on it? Doing so gives us the inner strength we need to preach the Kingdom message now and to proclaim the hard-hitting judgment message that we may deliver in the near future. Also, when we meditate on Jehovah’s appealing qualities, our relationship with him will grow ever stronger. w22.11 6-7 ¶16-17
Tuesday, January 23
By this all will know that you are my disciples—if you have love among yourselves.—John 13:35.
Jesus indicated that not only his followers but also those outside the Christian congregation would recognize his true followers by the unselfish love they have for one another. And the love that exists among those in the Christian congregation is indeed remarkable. Of course, Jehovah’s Witnesses are not perfect. (1 John 1:8) So the more we get to know those in the congregation, the more likely we are to see some of their flaws. (Rom. 3:23) Sadly, some have allowed the imperfections of others to stumble them. How did Jesus demonstrate love toward his apostles? And how is it possible to imitate Jesus’ example today? Witnesses do well to reflect on the answers to those questions. Doing so may help us to display love more fully, especially when dealing with the imperfections of one another.—Eph. 5:2. w23.03 26-27 ¶2-4
Wednesday, January 24
With someone loyal you act in loyalty.—Ps. 18:25.
As we get closer to the end of this system of things, we can expect challenges to come from within the congregation. Those challenges could test our loyalty to Jehovah. So we must keep our senses. If you feel mistreated by a fellow Christian, do not allow yourself to become bitter. If you receive discipline, look beyond the embarrassment, accept the counsel, and make the needed adjustments. And when Jehovah’s organization makes changes that affect you personally, wholeheartedly accept them and obey the direction. Maintain your trust in Jehovah and his organization when your loyalty is tested. Stay calm, think clearly, and see matters from Jehovah’s perspective. Pray to Jehovah for help. And never isolate yourself from the congregation. Then, come what may, Satan will not be able to separate you from Jehovah or His organization.—Jas. 4:7. w22.11 24-25 ¶14-16
Thursday, January 25
Have love for the whole association of brothers.—1 Pet. 2:17.
Elders help the brothers to be prepared before a disaster strikes. They make sure that all in the congregation know what steps to take to stay safe and to contact the elders. What can you personally do? If a disaster occurs nearby, ask the elders how you can help. Perhaps you can offer temporary accommodations, either for those who are displaced or for construction volunteers. You may be able to deliver food and supplies to publishers in need. If a disaster occurs in a more distant location, you can still help. How? By praying for those affected. (2 Cor. 1:8-11) You may be able to support the relief work financially by donating to the worldwide work. (2 Cor. 8:2-5) If you are able to travel to an affected area to help, ask the elders about volunteering. If you are invited to do so, you will likely receive some training so that you can be used where and when you are most needed. w22.12 24 ¶8; 25 ¶11-12
Friday, January 26
No temptation has come upon you except what is common to men.—1 Cor. 10:13.
Another translation renders today’s text this way: “No temptation has overtaken you that is unusual for human beings.” That statement was directed to male and female Christians living in Corinth. Some had formerly been adulterers, homosexuals, and drunkards. (1 Cor. 6:9-11) Do you think that after their baptism they never had any improper desires to contend with? That could not be the case. They were all anointed Christians, true, but they were still imperfect humans. No doubt they had to struggle with improper desires from time to time. That should be encouraging to us. Why? Because it shows that whatever improper desire you are battling, someone else has resisted it. Indeed, you can remain “firm in the faith, knowing that the same kind of sufferings are being experienced by the entire association of your brothers.”—1 Pet. 5:9. w23.01 12 ¶15
Saturday, January 27
In the world you will have tribulation, but take courage! I have conquered the world.—John 16:33.
Jesus asked Jehovah to watch over his followers. (John 17:11) Why does this give us courage? Because Jehovah is stronger than any of our enemies. (1 John 4:4) Nothing escapes his notice. We are convinced that if we rely on Jehovah, we can overcome our fears and show courage. Do you sometimes feel embarrassed to identify yourself as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses? Are you putting off becoming a publisher or getting baptized because you worry about what others might think of you? Do not let such feelings stop you from doing what you know is right. Pray fervently to Jehovah. Ask him to give you the courage to do his will. As you see how Jehovah answers your prayers, you will become stronger and more courageous.—Isa. 41:10, 13. w23.01 29 ¶12; 30 ¶14
Sunday, January 28
Have you not read?—Matt. 12:3.
Jesus asked the question “Have you not read?” to reveal that the Pharisees had a wrong view of the Scriptures. (Matt. 12:1-7) On that occasion, the Pharisees claimed that Jesus’ disciples had violated the Sabbath. In reply, Jesus cited two Scriptural examples and quoted a verse from Hosea to show that the Pharisees had missed the point of the Sabbath law and had failed to show mercy. Why were these men not molded by their reading of God’s Word? Because they read it with a critical and proud spirit. Their attitude kept them from getting the sense of what they read. (Matt. 23:23; John 5:39, 40) Note also Matthew 19:4-6, where Jesus asked the Pharisees this same question: “Have you not read?” Although they had read the creation account, they overlooked what it taught about God’s view of marriage. We learn from Jesus’ words that we need to read the Bible with the right attitude. Unlike the Pharisees, we must be sincere and teachable. w23.02 12 ¶12-13
Monday, January 29
Thinking ability will keep watch over you.—Prov. 2:11.
Jehovah’s Law to the nation of Israel included guidelines that would help prevent serious accidents from occurring at home and at work. (Ex. 21:28, 29; Deut. 22:8) Fatal accidents had serious consequences for unintentional manslayers. (Deut. 19:4, 5) The Law required that even those who unintentionally harmed an unborn child be punished. (Ex. 21:22, 23) The Scriptures make it clear that Jehovah wants us to be safety conscious. We show that we appreciate God’s gift of life by taking safety measures at home and at work. We dispose of sharp objects, toxic chemicals, or medicines in a safe way, and we keep such items out of the reach of young children. We are cautious when handling open flames, hot liquids, and power tools, not leaving them unattended. We do not drive a car while our judgment is impaired by medication, alcohol, or lack of sleep, or allow ourselves to be distracted by using a handheld device while driving. w23.02 21-22 ¶7-9
Tuesday, January 30
You will see your Grand Instructor.—Isa. 30:20.
Jehovah is a patient, kind, understanding Teacher. He looks for the good in his students. (Ps. 130:3) And he never expects more of us than we can do. Remember, he designed your brain, a wonderful gift. (Ps. 139:14) Our Creator wants us to keep learning forever—and to enjoy it. So it is wise to “form a longing” for Bible truths now. (1 Pet. 2:2) Set goals that you can reach, and stick to a schedule of Bible reading and study. (Josh. 1:8) With Jehovah’s blessing, you will come to enjoy reading and learning about him more and more. Knowledge alone is never enough. Its primary value is in how it helps you to learn more about Jehovah and to develop such qualities as love for him and faith in him. (1 Cor. 8:1-3) As you continue learning, keep asking Jehovah to help you gain more faith. (Luke 17:5) He generously answers such prayers. w23.03 10 ¶11, 13
Wednesday, January 31
[Make] the best use of your time.—Col. 4:5.
Jesus’ disciples were not to be idle while they awaited the conclusion of the system of things. Jesus gave them work to do. He commanded them to preach the good news “in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the most distant part of the earth.” (Acts 1:6-8) What an enormous assignment Jesus’ followers received! By devoting themselves to that assignment, they made the best use of their time. In order to pay attention to ourselves, we need to consider how we use our time. “Unexpected events” can affect any one of us. (Eccl. 9:11) Our life can suddenly be cut short. We can make the best use of our time by doing Jehovah’s will and strengthening our friendship with him. (John 14:21) We need to “be steadfast, immovable, always having plenty to do in the work of the Lord.” (1 Cor. 15:58) Then when the end comes—whether it is the end of our life or the end of this wicked system—we will have no regrets.—Matt. 24:13; Rom. 14:8. w23.02 18 ¶12-14 |
Sing Praises (ssb)
1984 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/Ssb | Song 194
Enter Jehovah’s Temple Courtyards!
(Psalm 100:4)
1. Throughout the land Jehovah’s Witnesses are preaching:
‘God and his Son have now begun to reign!’
This is the time to come and worship God Almighty,
Learn of his ways and in his house remain.
2. Open the gates, and let the humble ones now enter.
Come right inside, into God’s courtyards grand.
Do bring a gift, and come up to his holy mountain.
Joyful become, and let your heart expand.
3. This is the day the little one becomes a thousand.
From far away Christ’s other sheep draw near.
Flocking like doves, they come into the temple courtyards,
Where they can bless Jehovah’s name so dear.
4. Enter the gates, and praise the Sov’reign Lord Jehovah.
This is the call that can be heard earth wide.
Come congregate within the courtyards of true worship.
Make this the realm where you will e’er reside. |
Family Life (fl)
1978 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/fl | Chapter 3
After the Wedding Day
1. How could the kind of cooperation that is described at Ecclesiastes 4:9, 10 benefit one’s marriage?
YOUR wedding is past, and you and your mate are settling down as a new family unit. Is your happiness complete? You are no longer alone but have a companion to confide in, to share your joys and also your problems. Do you find Ecclesiastes 4:9, 10 true in your case?—“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their hard work. For if one of them should fall, the other one can raise his partner up. But how will it be with just the one who falls when there is not another to raise him up?” Is your marriage flourishing with this kind of cooperation? It usually takes some time and effort for this happy blending of two lives. But in many marriages, sad to say, it never happens.
2, 3. (a) What realities of life must be faced after the wedding day? (b) Why is it only reasonable to expect that adjustments will have to be made after a person gets married?
2 In romantic tales, the problem often is getting the two who are in love together. But then they live happily ever after. In real life, it is living happily afterward, day by day, that presents the true challenge. After the delights of the wedding day comes the daily routine of life: getting up early, going to work, shopping, cooking meals, washing dishes, cleaning the house, and so on.
3 The marriage relationship requires adjustments. You both entered into it with at least some expectations and ideals that were not very practical and realistic. When these are not met, some disappointment may come after the first few weeks. But, remember, you have made a big change in your life. You are no longer living alone or with a family that you have been with all your life. You are now with a new person, one you may be discovering that you don’t know as well as you thought you did. Your schedule is new, your work may be new, your budget is different, and there are new friends and in-laws to get used to. The success of your marriage and your happiness depend upon your willingness to adjust.
ARE YOU FLEXIBLE?
4. What Scriptural principles could help a married person to make adjustments? (1 Corinthians 10:24; Philippians 4:5)
4 Some, because of pride, find it difficult to be flexible. But, as the Bible says, “pride comes before disaster, and arrogance before a fall.” To persist in stubbornness can be calamitous. (Proverbs 16:18, New English Bible) Jesus recommended that one be willing to bend and yield when he said that if anyone wanted your “inner garment, let your outer garment also go to him,” and if someone wanted you to go “for a mile, go with him two miles.” Rather than your arguing with someone close to you, the apostle Paul asked: “Why do you not rather let yourselves be wronged?” (Matthew 5:40, 41; 1 Corinthians 6:7) If Christians can go to such extremes to keep peace with others, surely two married persons in love should be able to adjust in order to make a success of their new relationship.
5. How might one think positively or negatively about one’s marriage mate?
5 There are opportunities everywhere for one to be either happy or unhappy. To which will you be alert? Will you focus on the positive or dwell on the negative? The new wife may think: ‘Now that we are married, where is that romantic man who used to take me out to interesting places and spend time with me? He’s settled into a rut. He takes me for granted. He’s certainly not the man I knew before!’ Or does she understand and appreciate that he now works hard to be a good provider for his family? And does this new husband notice that his wife works hard to cook and clean, at times is very tired and does not have as much time to spend trying to look glamorous? Or does he say to himself: ‘What’s happened to that attractive young lady that I married? She’s changed, now that she has her man’?
6. When husband and wife really work to make their marriage succeed, how does this affect their relationship with each other?
6 Both should be mature and realize that neither one has the time or the energy to do all the things that were done before marriage. Now is the time to show flexibility and accept the deeply satisfying responsibility of making marriage work. One person can ruin a marriage, but it takes two to make it work. Making marriage work is an achievement. Achievement implies accomplishing something despite difficulties. When the two of you join in this endeavor, a part of each of you blends into this achievement. This joint effort with a mutual goal ties you together; it binds you close; it makes the two of you one. In time this creates a bond of love surpassing anything felt in anticipation of marriage, and in such unifying happiness it becomes a pleasure to adjust to each other’s differences.
7. If decisions must be made, when is it good to be yielding?
7 Pride fades as love grows, and there is happiness not only in giving but also in giving in, yielding, when personal preference, and not principle, is involved. It may be the buying of some item for the house, or how to spend a vacation. When concern for the other’s happiness is shown, the couple begin to fit the apostle Paul’s words: “Keeping an eye, not in personal interest upon just your own matters, but also in personal interest upon those of the others.”—Philippians 2:4.
A BALANCED VIEW OF SEX
8, 9. What is the Scriptural view of marital intimacies?
8 The Bible is not prudish about sexual intercourse. By poetic figures of speech it shows the ecstasy this should bring to husband and wife; it also emphasizes that sex should be restricted to husband and wife. This passage is found at Proverbs 5:15-21:
“Drink water out of your own cistern, and tricklings out of the midst of your own well. Should your springs be scattered out of doors, your streams of water in the public squares themselves? Let them prove to be for you alone, and not for strangers with you. Let your water source prove to be blessed, and rejoice with the wife of your youth, a lovable hind and a charming mountain goat. Let her own breasts intoxicate you at all times. With her love may you be in an ecstasy constantly. So why should you, my son, be in an ecstasy with a strange woman or embrace the bosom of a foreign woman? For the ways of man are in front of the eyes of Jehovah, and he is contemplating all his tracks.”
9 However, it would be a mistake to overemphasize sex to the point of making it seem that the success of the marriage hinges on the couple’s sex life, or that it could compensate for serious shortcomings in other areas of the relationship. The flood of sexual material from books, movies and commercials—much of it designed to stir erotic desire—makes sex seem that vital. However, God’s Word disagrees, recommending self-control in all areas of life. Even in marriage, throwing off all restraint can lead to practices that cheapen the marital relationship.—Galatians 5:22, 23; Hebrews 13:4.
10. What are some things to consider that could help a married couple to adjust sexually?
10 Adjusting sexually is frequently difficult and may take some time after the wedding. This is usually due to a lack of knowledge and a failure to discern the needs of one’s partner. Talking to a respected married friend beforehand may help. Not only are a man and a woman made differently, they also feel differently. Consideration for the woman’s need for tenderness is important. But there should be no negative feeling of false modesty or prudery or feeling that sex is somehow shameful. Neither should it become an occasion of conquest, as it does with some men. “Let the husband render to his wife her due,” the Bible says, and “let the wife also do likewise to her husband.” And in so doing, this Bible principle is appropriate: “Let each one keep seeking, not his own advantage, but that of the other person.” If there is such love and desire to please on both sides, a good adjustment will be made.—1 Corinthians 7:3; 10:24.
DISAGREE WITHOUT BEING DISAGREEABLE
11-13. When there are disagreements, what should we keep in mind so that the differences do not develop into serious rifts?
11 No two individuals on earth are exactly the same. Each one is distinctly different. This also means that no two people will agree on everything. Most of the disagreements may be trivial, but some of them may be serious. There are homes in which disagreements quickly give rise to shouting, pushing, hitting and things being thrown; one mate or the other may leave for a period of days or weeks, or they may simply quit talking to each other. It is quite possible to disagree without having such a situation develop. How? By facing up to a certain basic truth.
12 All of us are imperfect, all have flaws, and, despite the best of intentions, weaknesses manifest themselves. The apostle Paul found this to be true in his case: “The good that I wish I do not do, but the bad that I do not wish is what I practice.” (Romans 7:19) We have inherited sin from our first parents. Perfection is beyond our powers. So “who can say: ‘I have cleansed my heart; I have become pure from my sin’?”—Proverbs 20:9; Psalm 51:5; Romans 5:12.
13 We accept our own weaknesses and make excuses for them. Can we not accept and excuse those of our marriage partner? We doubtless will readily acknowledge that we are sinners, but do we become defensive and reluctant to admit to a specific sin? And do we have the insight to understand that this reluctance to admit being in the wrong is typical of people, including our marriage partner, and do we make allowances? “The insight of a man certainly slows down his anger, and it is beauty on his part to pass over transgression,” says the inspired proverb. Doubtless you, like just about everyone else, subscribe to the principle of the “golden rule.” Jesus stated it in his famous Sermon on the Mount: “All things, therefore, that you want men to do to you, you also must likewise do to them.” Most people give it lip service; few practice it. Its sincere application would solve the problems of human relationships, including marital ones.—Proverbs 19:11; Matthew 7:12.
14, 15. (a) What can result when one unfavorably compares one’s marriage mate with another person? (b) Regarding what matters are such comparisons at times unwisely made?
14 We each like to be thought of and treated as an individual. When a person compares us unfavorably with someone else, perhaps viewing our qualities or abilities as inferior, how do we react? Generally we feel hurt or resentful. In effect we say, ‘But I am not that person. I am ME.’ Such comparisons are generally not motivating, because we want to be treated in an understanding way.
15 To illustrate the point: Do you, the husband, express appreciation for the meals that your wife prepares or do you complain that she can’t cook like your mother? How do you know how well your mother could cook when she was newly married? Maybe your wife does better than she did. Give your wife a chance to grow into her new duties and become proficient in them. And do you, the wife, complain that your new husband doesn’t bring home the salary your father does? What did your father earn when he was newly married? Even that doesn’t matter. What matters is the help you give your husband. Do you get up and make breakfast for him before he goes to work, so that he feels you support and appreciate his efforts? Does either one bicker with the other one over the in-laws, or disagree over the friendships to be cultivated or recreation to be engaged in? These and other disagreements may arise. How will you work them out?
16. What is wrong with the theory that violent quarrels help to resolve difficulties?
16 Some modern psychologists contend that quarrels are useful in resolving difficulties. Their theory is that frustrations build up, generate pressure and finally explode into a violent quarrel. In the heat of such angry exchanges, resentments long held in are blurted out, aired and disposed of—so the theory goes. Until this happens, the frustrations are held within to simmer and stew, and then boil over at a later time. But there is grave danger that such heated outbursts may cause you to say things you do not mean, and wounds may be inflicted that are beyond healing. You may wrong the other person so severely that a barrier is raised that you cannot thereafter breach. As Proverbs 18:19 warns: “A brother who is transgressed against is more than a strong town; and there are outputions that are like the bar of a dwelling tower.” The sound counsel found in the Bible is: “Quit before the quarrel breaks out.”—Proverbs 17:14, Revised Standard Version.
COMMUNICATE!
17. What might be done to prevent disagreements from building up inside oneself and reaching explosive proportions?
17 Far better than letting disagreements build up inside you until they reach explosive proportions, discuss them as they arise. Brooding over a wrong almost always causes it to seem worse than it really is. Discuss it now or forget it. Is it only a passing remark? Let it pass. Does it need discussing? Has your mate done something that distresses you? Don’t bluntly condemn; try raising the point in question form, or making a suggestion that will open it up for discussion. For example, you might say: ‘Honey, there is something I don’t understand. Could you help me?’ Then listen. Try to understand the other person’s viewpoint. Heed the warning of Proverbs 18:13: “When anyone is replying to a matter before he hears it, that is foolishness on his part and a humiliation.” None of us like it when someone jumps to wrong conclusions about us. So, rather than react quickly, endeavor to discern the intent or motive behind the act. Do as Proverbs 20:5 advises: “Counsel in the heart of a man is as deep waters, but the man of discernment is one that will draw it up.”
18. What might help us to dispel negative moods?
18 Are you given to moods? A moody person is difficult to live with. Some contend that moods are beyond our control, being governed by chemicals in the brain. Whether that is so or not, feelings are contagious. We may be either cheered up or depressed by those around us. Music can create various kinds of moods in us. Stories also can do this. The thoughts we harbor in our minds affect the way we feel. If you brood on negative things you will be depressed; by an act of will you can force the mind to think positive, optimistic thoughts. Think on them. (Philippians 4:8) If you find this difficult, try some vigorous physical activity—do some hard work, even if it’s hoeing weeds or scrubbing a floor; get out and jog or walk in the woods, or, better yet, find something helpful to do for someone else—anything to direct your attention and energies elsewhere. It is far better to nourish a good mood than to nurse a bad one. And it’s much more fun, for you and most certainly for your mate!
19. How might one deal understandingly with the moods of one’s marriage mate?
19 However, there are times when events grieve you deeply, or severe illness and pain afflict you. Or, in the case of your wife, monthly cycles and pregnancy greatly vary the secretion of powerful hormones that affect the nervous system and the emotions. A woman may be experiencing premenstrual tension without being consciously aware of it. It is a major factor that the husband should keep in mind so that, instead of becoming exasperated, he can show insight. In such special circumstances both husband and wife should recognize what is responsible for any change of temperament and respond in an upbuilding way. “The heart of the wise one causes his mouth to show insight, and to his lips it adds persuasiveness.” And, “a true companion is loving all the time, and is a brother that is born for when there is distress.”—Proverbs 16:23; 17:17.
20-22. (a) Why is undue jealousy to be avoided? (b) What might be done to give one’s marriage mate a feeling of security?
20 Is your marriage partner jealous? It is proper for a person to be jealous of his reputation, and of his marriage also. As adrenaline will start a heart beating again, so jealousy arouses the soul to the defense of something cherished. The opposite of jealousy is indifference, and we should not be indifferent to our marriage.
21 But there is another kind of jealousy, one induced by insecurity and fed by the imagination. Such unreasoning, overly possessive jealousy turns the marriage into an unpleasant prison where trust and true love cannot survive. “Love is not jealous” in such a manner, and obsessive jealousy “is rottenness to the bones.”—1 Corinthians 13:4; Proverbs 14:30.
22 If your mate has just cause for feeling insecure due to jealousy, remove that cause immediately. If there is no real cause, do all in your power to build up the confidence of the jealous one, by words and even more importantly by your actions. Reach for the heart!
23. What might beneficially be considered when a person is inclined to seek the help of outsiders in resolving marital problems?
23 Can outsiders be of help in resolving disagreements between married persons? Possibly, but they should not be called in unless both marriage partners agree to it. First, “plead your own cause with your fellowman, and do not reveal the confidential talk of another.” (Proverbs 25:9) There is a special risk in asking in-laws to arbitrate. They are not likely to be impartial. Wisely, the Bible says: “A man will leave his father and his mother and he must stick to his wife.” (Genesis 2:24) The same applies to the wife in relation to her parents and her husband. Instead of asking parents or in-laws to arbitrate, taking sides with one mate against the other, the husband and wife should stick together, recognizing their problems as ones that they share and that need to be worked out together. To appeal to outsiders without the other partner’s consent demeans both in the eyes of others. If you will communicate openly, honestly and lovingly, there is no reason why you should not be able to solve your problems yourselves. Other mature persons may be consulted for advice, but the solution ultimately rests with you and your mate.
24, 25. What might a person do if pride interferes with the resolving of a marriage problem?
24 “Do not be conceited or think too highly of yourself,” the apostle Paul advises. (Romans 12:3, New English Bible) He then adds: “In showing honor to one another take the lead.” (Romans 12:10) Sometimes when our pride is injured it helps to reflect that we are not really so big. Certainly we are not big in comparison to the earth, and the earth is itself small in the solar system, which, in turn, is tiny in the universe. In Jehovah’s eyes “all the nations are as something nonexistent . . . as nothing and an unreality they have been accounted to him.” (Isaiah 40:17) Such thoughts help to keep things in perspective, to see that disagreements may not involve such vital things after all.
25 At times a sense of humor may also help us to keep from taking ourselves too seriously. To be able to laugh at yourself is a mark of maturity and smooths out many rough spots in life.
“CAST YOUR BREAD UPON THE WATERS”
26, 27. What Bible principles should be applied when one’s marriage mate does not respond to efforts to settle differences peacefully, and why?
26 What if your mate does not respond to your efforts to solve differences peacefully? Follow the Bible’s advice: “Return evil for evil to no one.” Jesus is our model to copy: “When he was being reviled, he did not go reviling in return.” The common practice among persons is to return like for like. But if you take this course you let others shape you, make you what you are. Actually, they make you what they are. To let this happen is to deny yourself, what you stand for, the principles you hold dear. Instead, copy Jesus, who holds true to what he is, unchanged by the weaknesses of those around him: “If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny himself.”—Romans 12:17; 1 Peter 2:23; 2 Timothy 2:13.
27 If you are strong enough to stop a cycle of evil with good, you may start a cycle of good. “An answer, when mild, turns away rage.” (Proverbs 15:1) A mild answer does not come from weakness but springs from strength, and your mate will sense this. Since so many return like for like, your breakthrough with goodness may switch the cycle from evil to good. Certain scriptures indicate this. “The one freely watering others will himself also be freely watered.” “With the measure that you are measuring out, they will measure out to you in return.” “Cast your bread upon the waters, for you will find it after many days.“ (Proverbs 11:25; Luke 6:38; Ecclesiastes 11:1, Revised Standard Version) It may take time for your goodness to bring in a harvest of good from your mate. You don’t sow seed one day and reap on the next. Nevertheless, “whatever a man is sowing, this he will also reap; . . . So let us not give up in doing what is fine, for in due season we shall reap if we do not tire out.”—Galatians 6:7-9.
28. What are some of the fine principles found in the Bible book of Proverbs that can help to promote a happy married life, and how?
28 Here are some scriptures and questions for married couples to consider:
Proverbs 14:29: “He that is slow to anger is abundant in discernment, but one that is impatient is exalting foolishness.” If you give yourself time to think, do you not often discover that there’s no good cause to be angry?
Proverbs 17:27: “Anyone holding back his sayings is possessed of knowledge, and a man of discernment is cool of spirit.” Do you keep your spirit cool, and hold back words that would make your mate’s spirit hot?
Proverbs 25:11: “As apples of gold in silver carvings is a word spoken at the right time for it.” The word that is right at one time may be wrong for another time. Are you perceptive as to what is the right word at the right time?
Proverbs 12:18: “There exists the one speaking thoughtlessly as with the stabs of a sword, but the tongue of the wise ones is a healing.” Before you speak, do you stop and think what effect your words will have on your mate?
Proverbs 10:19: “In the abundance of words there does not fail to be transgression, but the one keeping his lips in check is acting discreetly.” Sometimes when upset we say more than we mean, and we are sorry afterwards. Do you guard against this?
Proverbs 20:3: “It is a glory for a man to desist from disputing, but everyone foolish will burst out in it.” It takes two to argue. Are you mature enough to be the one to stop?
Proverbs 10:12: “Hatred is what stirs up outputions, but love covers over even all transgressions.” Do you continually rehash old disputes, or do you love your mate enough to put them behind you?
Proverbs 14:9, “New English Bible”: “A fool is too arrogant to make amends; upright men know what reconciliation means.” Are you too proud to make concessions and seek peace in your marriage?
Proverbs 26:20: “Where there is no wood the fire goes out.” Can you stop arguing, or must you have the last word?
Ephesians 4:26: “Let the sun not set with you in a provoked state.” Do you dwell on differences and thereby prolong the misery for both yourself and your mate?
29. What are some basics to keep in mind when seeking to maintain a happy marriage?
29 Wise counsel benefits only when it is put into practice. Try it out. Similarly, be willing to try the suggestion your mate makes. See if it works. Who is to blame if something goes wrong? That’s not important. What is important is how things can be made right. Be flexible, air differences, talk them out, and don’t take yourself too seriously. Communicate! If you ‘love your mate as you do yourself,’ it should not be too difficult to adjust to the marriage relationship and to make it a happy one.—Matthew 19:19. |
Why Worship God (wj)
1993 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/wj | Introduction
A Blessing From God!—this is the fervent desire of millions of Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs. They perform daily acts of devotion and worship to obtain that blessing. Do you share their heartfelt yearning?
2 Indian sages have long taught the importance of such divine blessings. In the Brahma Purana, for example, they asked: “Which deity shall a devotee desiring liberation worship . . . ? Wherefrom is the supreme welfare gained? . . . Who is the god of gods?”1 Guru Nanak later similarly inquired: “How shall man become true before God?”2 Obviously, if we can answer these questions, we may expect rich blessings from God for ourselves and our families.
3 The Bhagavad Gita tells us that the one thing God asks of us is simply an offering of our love. “[The] highest Person is to be won by love-and-worship directed to none other,” it says.3 The Sikh Granth Sahib agrees: “To serve God is to love Him, if pious men reflect on it.”4 We can surely agree with this, but what instructions has God given us to guide us in the way of true worship?
4 The purpose of this brochure is to lead you to God’s own revelation of himself so that you may worship him in love and truth. It traces the search for Sruti, the God-inspired scriptures, and shows how you can be among the millions who now benefit from its teachings and receive blessings from God. May God guide you and your family in your search for eternal blessings and happiness, to his praise! |
Can the Bible Help Me if I’m Depressed? | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502013104 | Can the Bible Help Me if I’m Depressed?
The Bible’s answer
Yes, because the best help comes from “God, Who comforts and encourages and refreshes and cheers the depressed.”—2 Corinthians 7:6, The Amplified Bible.
What God gives to help the depressed
Strength. God “refreshes and cheers” you, not by removing all your problems, but by answering your prayers when you pray for the strength to cope. (Philippians 4:13) You can be sure that he’s ready to listen to you, for the Bible says: “Jehovah is near to those that are broken at heart; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.” (Psalm 34:18) In fact, God can hear your call for help even if you can’t put your feelings into words.—Romans 8:26, 27.
Good examples. One Bible writer prayed to God: “From the depths of my despair I call to you.” This psalmist dealt with his depression by remembering that God doesn’t burden us with guilt. Instead, he said to God: “If you kept a record of our sins, who could escape being condemned? But you forgive us, so that we should stand in awe of you.”—Psalm 130:1, 3, 4, Good News Translation.
Hope. Besides providing comfort now, God has promised to remove all the problems that lead to depression. When he fulfills that promise, “the former things [including depression] will not be called to mind, neither will they come up into the heart.”—Isaiah 65:17.
Note: While acknowledging the help that God provides, Jehovah’s Witnesses also seek medical treatment for ailments such as clinical depression. (Mark 2:17) We do not, however, endorse any specific medical treatment; we feel that each person should make his own decision on such matters. |
What Is the Holy Spirit? | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502014219 | What Is the Holy Spirit?
The Bible’s answer
The holy spirit is God’s power in action, his active force. (Micah 3:8; Luke 1:35) God sends out his spirit by projecting his energy to any place to accomplish his will.—Psalm 104:30; 139:7.
In the Bible, the word “spirit” is translated from the Hebrew word ruʹach and the Greek word pneuʹma. Most often, those words refer to God’s active force, or holy spirit. (Genesis 1:2) However, the Bible also uses those words in other senses:
Breath.—Habakkuk 2:19; Revelation 13:15.
Wind.—Genesis 8:1; John 3:8.
The vital, or animating, force in living creatures.—Job 34:14, 15.
A person’s disposition or attitude.—Numbers 14:24.
Spirit persons, including God and the angels.—1 Kings 22:21; John 4:24.
These meanings all share the sense of something invisible to humans that produces visible effects. Similarly, the spirit of God, “like the wind, is invisible, immaterial and powerful.”—An Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, by W. E. Vine.
The Bible also refers to God’s holy spirit as his “hands” or “fingers.” (Psalm 8:3; 19:1; Luke 11:20; compare Matthew 12:28.) Just as a craftsman uses his hands and fingers to do his work, God has used his spirit to produce such results as the following:
The universe.—Psalm 33:6; Isaiah 66:1, 2.
The Bible.—2 Peter 1:20, 21.
The miracles performed by his ancient servants and their zealous preaching.—Luke 4:18; Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11.
The fine qualities displayed by people who obey him.—Galatians 5:22, 23.
The holy spirit is not a person
By referring to God’s spirit as his “hands,” “fingers,” or “breath,” the Bible shows that the holy spirit is not a person. (Exodus 15:8, 10) A craftsman’s hands cannot function independent of his mind and body; likewise, God’s holy spirit operates only as he directs it. (Luke 11:13) The Bible also compares God’s spirit to water and associates it with such things as faith and knowledge. These comparisons all point to the impersonal nature of the holy spirit.—Isaiah 44:3; Acts 6:5; 2 Corinthians 6:6.
The Bible gives the names of Jehovah God and of his Son, Jesus Christ; yet, nowhere does it name the holy spirit. (Isaiah 42:8; Luke 1:31) When the Christian martyr Stephen was given a miraculous heavenly vision, he saw only two persons, not three. The Bible says: “He, being full of holy spirit, gazed into heaven and caught sight of God’s glory and of Jesus standing at God’s right hand.” (Acts 7:55) The holy spirit was God’s power in action, enabling Stephen to see the vision.
Misconceptions about the holy spirit
Misconception: The “Holy Ghost,” or holy spirit, is a person and is part of the Trinity, as stated at 1 John 5:7, 8 in the King James version of the Bible.
Fact: The King James version of the Bible includes at 1 John 5:7, 8 the words “in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. And there are three that bear witness in earth.” However, researchers have found that those words were not written by the apostle John and so do not belong in the Bible. Professor Bruce M. Metzger wrote: “That these words are spurious and have no right to stand in the New Testament is certain.”—A Textual Commentary on the Greek New Testament.
Misconception: The Bible personifies the holy spirit, and this proves that it is a person.
Fact: The Scriptures do at times personify the holy spirit, but this does not prove that the holy spirit is a person. The Bible also personifies wisdom, death, and sin. (Proverbs 1:20; Romans 5:17, 21) For example, wisdom is said to have “works” and “children,” and sin is depicted as seducing, killing, and working out covetousness.—Matthew 11:19; Luke 7:35; Romans 7:8, 11.
Similarly, when the apostle John quoted Jesus, he personified the holy spirit as a “helper” (paraclete) that would give evidence, guide, speak, hear, declare, glorify, and receive. He used masculine personal pronouns such as “he” or “him” when referring to that “helper.” (John 16:7-15) However, he did so because the Greek word for “helper” (pa·raʹkle·tos) is a masculine noun and requires a masculine pronoun according to the rules of Greek grammar. When John referred to the holy spirit using the neuter noun pneuʹma, he used the genderless pronoun “it.”—John 14:16, 17.
Misconception: Baptism in the name of the holy spirit proves that it is a person.
Fact: The Bible sometimes uses “name” to stand for power or authority. (Deuteronomy 18:5, 19-22; Esther 8:10) This is similar to its use in the English expression “in the name of the law,” which does not mean that the law is a person. A person who is baptized “in the name of” the holy spirit recognizes the power and role of the holy spirit in accomplishing God’s will.—Matthew 28:19.
Misconception: Jesus’ apostles and other early disciples believed that the holy spirit was a person.
Fact: The Bible does not say that, nor does history. The Encyclopædia Britannica states: “The definition that the Holy Spirit was a distinct divine Person . . . came at the Council of Constantinople in ad 381.” This was over 250 years after the last of the apostles had died. |
Table of outputs | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102017003 | Table of outputs
3 COVER SUBJECT
Teen Depression—Why? What Can Help?
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE
8 Your Smile—A Gift to Share
10 THE BIBLE’S VIEWPOINT Abortion
12 “We Were Touched to See Such Love”
14 HELP FOR THE FAMILY How to Show Appreciation
16 WAS IT DESIGNED? The Compound Heat Shield of the Saharan Silver Ant |
Reasoning (rs)
1989 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/books/reasoning-rs | Born Again
Definition: Being born again involves being baptized in water (“born from water”) and begotten by God’s spirit (“born from . . . spirit”), thus becoming a son of God with the prospect of sharing in the Kingdom of God. (John 3:3-5) Jesus had this experience, as do the 144,000 who are heirs with him of the heavenly Kingdom.
Why is it necessary for any Christians to be “born again”?
God has purposed to associate a limited number of faithful humans with Jesus Christ in the heavenly Kingdom
Luke 12:32: “Have no fear, little flock, because your Father has approved of giving you the kingdom.”
Rev. 14:1-3: “I saw, and, look! the Lamb [Jesus Christ] standing upon the Mount Zion, and with him a hundred and forty-four thousand . . . who have been bought from the earth.” (See pages 166, 167, under the heading “Heaven.”)
Humans cannot go to heaven with bodies of flesh and blood
1 Cor. 15:50: “This I say, brothers, that flesh and blood cannot inherit God’s kingdom, neither does corruption inherit incorruption.”
John 3:6: “What has been born from the flesh is flesh, and what has been born from the spirit is spirit.”
Only persons who have been “born again,” thus becoming God’s sons, can share in the heavenly Kingdom
John 1:12, 13: “As many as did receive him [Jesus Christ], to them he gave authority to become God’s children, because they were exercising faith in his name; and they were born, not from blood or from a fleshly will or from man’s will, but from God.” (“As many as did receive him” does not mean all humans who have put faith in Christ. Notice who is being referred to, as indicated by verse 11 [“his own people,” the Jews]. The same privilege has been extended to others of mankind, but only to a “little flock.”)
Rom. 8:16, 17: “The spirit itself bears witness with our spirit that we are God’s children. If, then, we are children, we are also heirs: heirs indeed of God, but joint heirs with Christ, provided we suffer together that we may also be glorified together.”
1 Pet. 1:3, 4: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, for according to his great mercy he gave us a new birth to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an incorruptible and undefiled and unfading inheritance. It is reserved in the heavens for you.”
What will they do in heaven?
Rev. 20:6: “They will be priests of God and of the Christ, and will rule as kings with him for the thousand years.”
1 Cor. 6:2: “Do you not know that the holy ones will judge the world?”
Can a person who is not “born again” be saved?
Rev. 7:9, 10, 17: “After these things [after the apostle John heard the number of those who would be “born again,” those who would make up spiritual Israel and would be with Christ in heaven; compare Romans 2:28, 29 and Galatians 3:26-29] I saw, and, look! a great crowd, which no man was able to number, out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, dressed in white robes; and there were palm branches in their hands. And they keep on crying with a loud voice, saying: ‘Salvation we owe to our God, who is seated on the throne, and to the Lamb.’ . . . ‘The Lamb [Jesus Christ], who is in the midst of the throne, will shepherd them, and will guide them to fountains of waters of life.’”
After listing many pre-Christian persons of faith, Hebrews 11:39, 40 says: “All these, although they had witness borne to them through their faith, did not get the fulfillment of the promise, as God foresaw something better for us, in order that they might not be made perfect apart from us.” (Who are here meant by “us”? Hebrews 3:1 shows that they are “partakers of the heavenly calling.” The pre-Christian persons who had faith, then, must have a hope for perfect life somewhere other than in heaven.)
Ps. 37:29: “The righteous themselves will possess the earth, and they will reside forever upon it.”
Rev. 21:3, 4: “Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. And God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.”
Is it possible for a person to have God’s spirit and yet not be “born again”?
Regarding John the baptizer, Jehovah’s angel said: “He will be filled with holy spirit right from his mother’s womb.” (Luke 1:15) And Jesus later said: “Among those born of women there has not been raised up a greater than John the Baptist; but a person that is a lesser one in the kingdom of the heavens is greater than he is [Why? Because John will not be in the heavens and so there was no need for him to be “born again”]. But from the days of John the Baptist until now [when Jesus stated this] the kingdom of the heavens is the goal toward which men press.”—Matt. 11:11, 12.
The spirit of Jehovah was “operative” upon David and “spoke” by him (1 Sam. 16:13; 2 Sam. 23:2), but nowhere does the Bible say that he was “born again.” There was no need for him to be “born again,” because, as Acts 2:34 says: “David did not ascend to the heavens.”
What identifies persons today who have God’s spirit?
See pages 381, 382, under the main heading “Spirit.”
If Someone Says—
‘I’ve been born again’
You might reply: ‘That means that you expect someday to be with Christ in heaven, doesn’t it? . . . Have you ever wondered what those who go to heaven will do there?’ Then perhaps add: (1) ‘They will be kings and priests, ruling with Christ. (Rev. 20:6; 5:9, 10) Jesus said that these would be just a “little flock.” (Luke 12:32)’ (2) ‘If they are kings, there must also be subjects over whom they will rule. Who will these be? . . . Here are some points that I found to be very interesting when they were drawn to my attention. (Ps. 37:11, 29; Prov. 2:21, 22)’
‘Have you been born again?’
You might reply: ‘I find that what people mean by “born again” is not always the same. Would you tell me what it means to you?’
Or you could say: ‘You want to know whether I have accepted Jesus as my Savior and have received holy spirit, is that right? May I assure you that the answer is Yes; otherwise I would not be talking to you about Jesus.’ Then perhaps add: (1) ‘But when I think of having the holy spirit, I find that evidence of that spirit is sadly missing in many who claim to be Christians. (Gal. 5:22, 23)’ (2) ‘Would you enjoy living on this earth if everyone reflected those godly qualities? (Ps. 37:10, 11)’
Another possibility: ‘If you mean by that, “Have I accepted Christ as my Savior?” the answer is Yes. All of Jehovah’s Witnesses have done that. But, to us, being born again involves much more than that.’ Then perhaps add: (1) ‘When Jesus spoke about being born again he said that it was necessary in order to enter the Kingdom of God, that is, to be part of God’s Kingdom, his heavenly government. (John 3:5)’ (2) ‘The Bible also shows that many people who do the will of God will live here on earth, as happy subjects of that Kingdom. (Matt. 6:10; Ps. 37:29)’
An additional suggestion: Those who are of the heavenly class could reply: ‘Yes, I am. But the Bible cautions all of us not to be overconfident of our position. We need to keep examining ourselves to be sure that we are really doing what God and Christ require of us. (1 Cor. 10:12)’ Then perhaps add: ‘What responsibility did Jesus lay upon his true disciples? (Matt. 28:19, 20; 1 Cor. 9:16)’ |
Youth (yy)
1976 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/yy | Chapter 8
What Kind of Friends Do You Want?
1-5. (a) How can friendships add to your enjoyment of life? (b) How would you describe a real friend? (Proverbs 18:24)
HAVING a true friend adds a lot to the joy of living. People who are “loners” and avoid others are rarely, if ever, really happy. What is there about friendship that adds so much to your happiness?
2 Doing something with a friend seems to multiply the enjoyment of that particular experience. Jesus once told of a shepherd who found his lost sheep and of a woman who found her lost coin. Each one called in friends, saying, “Rejoice with me.” (Luke 15:6, 9) Yes, you normally want to share good things with companions, and your delight seems to double as a result. Haven’t you experienced that?
3 On the other hand, when things don’t go well and you feel depressed, a good friend can do a lot to relieve your sadness. Friends can be a real help when trouble threatens. They can warn you of danger and help you to escape it, and can encourage you when the going is hard. You probably can agree with what Proverbs 17:17 says: “A true companion is loving all the time, and is a brother that is born for when there is distress.”
4 That scripture emphasizes a quality that strongly marks real friends: Loyalty. Being a friend means more than just acting friendly. A genuine friend is loyal to you and to your best interests. Are your friends like that?
5 Today, most people seem more interested in outdoing their neighbor than in helping him. Even among so-called “friends” there is often a spirit of competition, not of loyalty. Many friendships last only as long as neither person is called on to make some change or to give up some selfish interest for the good of the other. In this competitive world a true friend is not easy to find.
6-8. In what ways did Jonathan and Hushai prove that they were friends of David?
6 A fine Bible example of one who had some really worthwhile friends is seen in David. You may have heard how David, after the defeat of Goliath, an immense enemy warrior, gained a fine friend in Jonathan, the son of King Saul. Jonathan, if he had been jealous, could have hated David as a possible rival for the throne of Israel. Instead, Jonathan recognized that God’s favor was on David, and “Jonathan’s very soul became bound up with the soul of David, and Jonathan began to love him as his own soul.” (1 Samuel 18:1) Jonathan loved him for his courage and faith in Jehovah God. Jonathan himself also must have had a similar devotion to God. There couldn’t be a better foundation for a mutual friendship.
7 You can further read about a later friend of David named Hushai, who was one of David’s close associates during his kingship. The way Hushai risked his life to thwart the traitorous conspiracy of Absalom, one of David’s sons, is a thrilling account to read.—See 2 Samuel 15:10-37; 16:16–17:16.
8 Perhaps you have friends like these. If not, how can you gain them? It will take real effort, but it is certainly worth it.
SEEKING WORTHWHILE FRIENDS
9-13. (a) How can a person gain worthwhile friends? Why is it unwise to try to get friends by giving or sharing material possessions? (b) As shown at Psalm 101:5-7, what kind of persons is it best to avoid as close companions?
9 There is a lot of truth in the saying that ‘the only way to have a friend is to be one.’ Sometimes persons feel it keenly when they are ‘left out’ of things by other young persons whom they may admire. Or they may have had friends only to lose them. They feel very hurt about this. Possibly they do not realize that friendship is a two-way street.
10 So we do well to ask ourselves: What am I doing to be friendly to others? How much sincere and unselfish interest do I take in others, and what do I do to contribute to their happiness and their good? What qualities am I cultivating that would make others feel that they would really like to have me as a friend?
11 The kind of friends you get depends largely on the way you go about trying to find them. Some seek to win friends by spending money on them, or by inviting them to share in the enjoyment of material possessions, such as a stereo set and records or sports equipment. True, this may draw some to you. The Proverbs say, “Many are the friends of the rich person,” and that “everybody is a companion to the man making gifts.” Yes, many people act friendly when a person spends his money freely. But when the money runs out so do the “friends.”—Proverbs 14:20; 19:6.
12 Worthwhile friends cannot be “bought,” either by the use of material possessions, or by flattery or by always giving in to what the other wants. Any friend that can be bought is never worth the price, however much it might be. True friends are attracted by what you are, by your qualities, not by what they can get out of you.
13 So, while it is good to have a friendly disposition toward people, if you want genuine friends you need to be selective about those you choose as close and confidential companions. David was. He says: “Anyone of haughty eyes and of arrogant heart, him I cannot endure. My eyes are upon the faithful ones of the earth, that they may dwell with me. . . . There will dwell inside my house no worker of trickiness.” (Psalm 101:5-7) Why is it so important for young people today to be selective as to close companions?
WHY A GOOD CHOICE IS VITAL
14-16. (a) What effect do a person’s friends have on him? Illustrate. (b) How will a friendship be affected if you tell the other person that you disagree with him?
14 It is a basic principle of social relations that you tend to become like those around you if you associate with them long enough. Your choice of friends tells a lot about what kind of person you are or are likely to become. Your close friends are bound to have a “molding” effect on you.
15 Do you choose friends who are honest and decent, who are considerate, who have respect for God and his Word and who have the courage to do what is right? Or are you attracted by persons who pride themselves on being able to “outsmart” others, and who, in place of genuine courage, take blind risks just to show off? Are they ready to risk sharing in immorality, or to steal or take drugs and then brag that they are ‘getting away with it’? If they try to “hook” you into going along with them in something that can harm you, can they rightly be called “friends”?
16 Remember, if you are a close companion of such persons, you will either have to go along with them or have to disagree with them. To disagree with them will probably end the “friendship.” Why? Because they will look on disagreement as criticism or reproof. Usually such persons like to ridicule others, but they can’t take reproof themselves. Proverbs 9:8 talks about that kind of person and then, in contrast, adds: “Give a reproof to a wise person and he will love you.” Real friends can talk frankly to each other and help each other to improve or to correct themselves where needed. When you have a really good companion who thinks straight and talks straight, you have a treasure beyond price. True friends are like diamonds—precious but rare. In sad contrast, false friends are like common stones—found everywhere.
17-19. (a) If you were to be a close companion of someone who did not really believe in God or the Bible, how would you be affected? (Proverbs 11:9; Genesis 34:1, 2) (b) If you really want to help such a person, what is the best way to do it?
17 Many young people today, because of having no faith in a personal Creator or in his Word, take the attitude of “let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we are to die.” That was the way men of ancient times felt who were sentenced to fight wild beasts in the arena. They had no faith in Jehovah God and his power to give life again to those faithful to him. As a young person, you are really just getting started in life. So, do you want to adopt the attitude those condemned prisoners had toward life? After describing that viewpoint of just ‘living for today,’ the apostle Paul went on to say: “Do not be misled. Bad associations spoil useful habits.” (1 Corinthians 15:32, 33) Think about the truthfulness of that. If you seek close companionship with persons who think only of the present, you can be sure they will ruin your hopes and efforts toward gaining a lasting happy future.
18 Sometimes a young person may say that he or she associates with another of questionable ways and reputation so as to help that one. To want to help others is a fine thing. But if you go along with them in their selfish pleasures, how much help are you giving them? For example, if you saw a child in a mud puddle, would you take some soap out into the puddle and try to clean the child with it? You would only get yourself dirty as a result. You would first have to try to encourage the child to come out of the mud puddle before you could hope to do anything about cleaning him up at close range.
19 Actually, to accept a person with bad habits as a close associate will often have a bad effect on that person (as well as on yourself). Why? Because it may encourage him to keep on in the same way, feeling that he can always rely on your backing him up. Wouldn’t it be of far greater help to limit your association to times when you can really aid the person by pointing out good counsel and by inviting him to accompany you to places where that counsel is explained?
THE MOST IMPORTANT FRIENDS
20. How, by our choice of friends, might we actually make ourselves enemies of God?
20 Above all, you should think seriously as to how association with persons of questionable habits may affect your relationship with God and his Son. At James 4:4 this truth is stated: ‘Whoever wants to be a friend of the world is constituting himself an enemy of God.’ That principle can apply to our relationship with any one person in the world just the same as to our relationship with the world as a whole. If we approve improper ways in someone or prefer that one’s companionship to that of young persons who really want to please God, then do we not show ourselves to be ‘friends of the world’?
21-23. (a) What benefits come to a person who really has God and Christ as his friends? (Romans 8:35, 38, 39) (b) How can we show that we really want them as our friends?
21 If you really want happiness now and in the future, by all means learn to prize the friendship of God and his Son. For thousands of years now God has been demonstrating his friendship toward those who love righteousness, developing his grand purposes to bring them everlasting life in really happy conditions. When he was on earth, God’s Son proved his loyal love for right-hearted persons. He told his disciples: “No one has love greater than this, that someone should surrender his soul in behalf of his friends. You are my friends if you do what I am commanding you.”—John 15:13, 14.
22 Unlike many who may pretend to be your friends, Jehovah God and his Son will not give up on you or abandon you because you run into difficulties. If you put your trust in them you will find that during times of trouble their help and support will really be with you.
23 Do you really appreciate and desire these great Friends? Then show it by seeking loyal companions who accept and will live up to the obligation the apostle John wrote about when he said: “This is what the love of God means, that we observe his commandments; and yet his commandments are not burdensome.” (1 John 5:3) Through thick and thin, such companions will prove to be the kind of friends worth having.
[Blurb on page 61]
To have friends, you need to be a friend.
[Picture on page 63]
True friends are like diamonds |
CAN OUR PLANET SURVIVE?
Air | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102023008 | CAN OUR PLANET SURVIVE?
AIR
WE NEED air, but not just for breathing. Air shields our planet from most of the sun’s harmful radiation. Without air, temperatures around the world would plunge to below freezing.
The Threats to Our Air
Air pollution poses a deadly threat to life on earth. Only one percent of earth’s population is breathing air that meets the World Health Organization’s standards of safety.
Air pollution has been instructioned to respiratory illness, lung cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Air pollution is responsible for some 7,000,000 premature deaths each year.
Our Planet—Designed to Survive
Our planet has the natural ability to maintain a constant supply of healthy air for all breathing life-forms. These natural processes are most effective when man-made pollution is sustainable. Consider just a few examples.
The ability of forests to absorb carbon dioxide from the air is well-known. But less well-known is the fact that coastal wetlands thriving with mangroves can do an even better job. Mangroves play a significant role in removing from our air as much as five times more carbon dioxide than tropical forests can.
Recent studies show that some large algae such as kelp not only capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere but also bury it. Leaflike kelp blades have gas-filled bladders that allow them to float great distances. Far away from shore, the bladders burst, and the carbon-laden kelp sinks to the ocean floor. There it evidently stays safely buried for many centuries.
Our atmosphere’s ability to recover from harmful levels of pollution was demonstrated during the COVID-19 lockdown. In 2020, when the world’s factories and motor vehicles almost completely stopped spewing pollutants, air quality quickly improved. According to the “2020 World Air Quality Report,” more than 80 percent of participating countries reported having cleaner air shortly after the lockdown was implemented.
DID YOU KNOW?
Our Air Quality Can Recover
During the COVID-19 lockdown, air pollution from factories and automobiles was drastically reduced in New Delhi, India. Levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) quickly fell. These tiny particles (.0025 mm or smaller) can cause respiratory illness and other serious ailments. This improvement was only temporary, but it demonstrated the ability of the atmosphere to recover quickly from harmful levels of pollution.
© Amit kg/Shutterstock
Late 2019
© Volobotti/Shutterstock
During COVID-19 lockdown
What Is Being Done
Commuting by bicycle can help reduce air pollution
Governments continue to press industries to reduce air pollution. Also, scientists keep discovering new ways to reverse the effects of pollution. For example, one process uses microbes to turn pollutants into nontoxic substances. Also, experts advise people to walk or cycle instead of driving and to make their homes more energy efficient.
Some governments are providing citizens with modern cooking stoves to reduce air pollution, but many people are still without access to them
But more is needed, as is evident in a 2022 report compiled by international agencies, including the World Health Organization and the World Bank.
The report states that in 2020, about one third of the global population relied mainly on air-polluting cooking fuels and technologies. In many areas, few people can afford new stoves or have access to alternative fuels.
Reasons for Hope—What the Bible Says
“This is what the true God, Jehovah, says, the Creator of the heavens and . . . the One who spread out the earth and its produce, the One who gives breath to the people on it.”—Isaiah 42:5.
God created the air we breathe and the natural cycles that cleanse the air, and he has both infinite power and love for mankind. Therefore, does it seem reasonable that he would do nothing about the pollution of our air? See the article “God Promises That Our Planet Will Survive.”
LEARN MORE
How did our atmosphere come to be? Watch the video Was the Universe Created? on jw.org. |
Whose Proverbs Are They? | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101970012 | “Your Word Is Truth”
Whose Proverbs Are They?
WHO wrote the proverbs found in the book of Proverbs? For some three thousand years the Bible’s testimony was generally accepted.
For example, at Proverbs 1:1 we read: “The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, the king of Israel.” Then again, at Proverbs 10:1, we find the heading, “Proverbs of Solomon.” And at Proverbs 25:1, it states: “These also are the proverbs of Solomon that the men of Hezekiah the king of Judah transcribed.” Further, Proverbs 30:1 names “Agur the son of Jakeh,” and Pr chapter 31 begins: “The words of Lemuel the king, the weighty message that his mother gave to him in correction.”
Thus the book of Proverbs might be said to have five ‘by-lines’ identifying its writers. The very fact that the last two chapters are attributed to others than Solomon and that Lemuel even credits his mother is highly persuasive testimony that the proverbs of chapters 1 through 29 were not credited to Solomon merely because of his famed wisdom as claimed by some. They doubtless were among the three thousand that he is said to have spoken. In addition to the Bible’s testimony there is that of tradition, which all along has credited him with these proverbs.—1 Ki. 4:29-34.
However, modern religious critics, by and large, push all such testimony and reasoning aside. Thus the New Catholic Encyclopedia (1967) claims that “since Solomon enjoyed the reputation of being a sage,” such books as Proverbs “came to be pseudonymously”—that is, falsely fictitiously—“attributed to him, although they were compilations of material originally anonymous.” And a leading Protestant work, The Interpreter’s Dictionary of the Bible (1962), says that “it is doubtful that any of the proverbs goes back to Solomon’s time.”
Why do many modern religious authorities refuse to credit King Solomon with writing the proverbs found in chapters 1 through 29 of the book of Proverbs? Could it be that such have been deceived because of their lack of faith, because of their not wanting to believe? Their reasons are far from persuasive.—2 Cor. 4:4; 2 Thess. 3:2.
Harper’s Bible Dictionary (1957) critically argues that “the derogatory manner in which monarchs are spoken of does not represent the Solomonic era . . . but a later period. (Prov. 16:14; 19:12; 20:2; 25:3)” But do these texts actually downgrade monarchs? By no means! They merely underscore the fact that the king was to be held in awe. The strongest of the texts cited reads: “The frightfulness of a king is a growling like that of a maned young lion. Anyone drawing his fury against himself is sinning against his own soul.”—Prov. 20:2.
Yes, rather than derogating monarchs or kings such texts in fact exalt them, for kings were to be feared because of their power, even as it is wisdom to fear God. (Prov. 9:10) Bearing this out is Proverbs 24:21, which reads: “My son, fear Jehovah and the king.” Illustrating this principle was Jeroboam. He did elicit the king’s displeasure, in fact, that of none other than Solomon himself, and so had to flee for his life.—1 Ki. 11:26, 40.
Far from the book of Proverbs’ derogating monarchs it contains many texts that speak very favorably of them, such as: “Loving-kindness and trueness—they safeguard the king; and by loving-kindness he has sustained his throne.” “The one loving purity of heart—for the charm of his lips the king will be his companion.” (Prov. 20:28; 22:11) It might well be asked, Is it honest to cite such texts that speak of the rage of the king as examples to prove that the book of Proverbs could not have been written during Solomon’s time, and ignore texts that speak of his favor and loving-kindness, which texts are even more numerous?—Prov. 16:10; 20:8, 26; 29:4, 14.
Another argument used to try to prove a late date for the book of Proverbs is that it shows that ‘monogamy is the prevailing domestic background of that period.’ But does the mere fact that the Mosaic law tolerated polygamy mean that it was the prevailing domestic background in Solomon’s day? Not at all, if for no other than economic reasons.
The presence of Aramaic words in the book of Proverbs is another argument used to claim a late date for the book of Proverbs. But King Solomon may well have become familiar with Aramaic expressions by reason of his dealings with neighboring lands or by reason of his foreign wives. Besides, Aramaic was the native tongue of Syria, which was a part of his empire.
Still another argument used for attributing a late date to the book of Proverbs is the appearance of an alphabetic poem at Proverbs 31:10-31, which style, it is claimed, is “a relatively late Hebrew form.” But not so. A number of the psalms written by King David, the father of King Solomon, are acrostics, or alphabetical poems, such as Psalms 9, 10, 25, 34, 37, 145.
Modern critics also like to point to the parallels between some of the proverbs in the book of Proverbs and certain pagan proverbs. However, far more telling for Christian Bible students is the fact that quite a number of both direct and indirect quotations from the book of Proverbs appear in the Christian Greek Scriptures.a Also most noteworthy is the fact that the Creator is referred to as “God” only seven or eight times, but as “Jehovah” some seventy-five times, with instances of this in nearly every chapter. Certainly such counsel as “The name of Jehovah is a strong tower. Into it the righteous runs and is given protection,” is not of pagan origin.—Prov. 18:10.
Further, the importance that the book Proverbs attaches to the figurative heart might be said to be indicative of its divine origin. The heart, by the Hebrew word lebh, is mentioned more often in the Bible book of Proverbs than in any other with the exception of the book of Psalms, which is four times as long. Among the many striking expressions found in this book is “in want [need] of heart.” It is found eleven times, from Pr 6:32 to Pr 24:30 and nowhere else in the Bible. Yes, “more than all else that is to be guarded, safeguard your heart, for out of it are the sources of life.” (Prov. 4:23) The importance that this book attaches to the fear of Jehovah, mentioned some fifteen times, further argues for its divine authorship.
Truly, the testimony that the outputs of the book of Proverbs are as the Bible presents them is weighty and compelling. There is no reason to doubt the book’s own testimony as to who its writers were.
[Footnotes]
a Prov. 1:16 at Rom. 3:15; Prov. 3:7 at Rom. 12:16; Prov. 3:11, 12 at Heb. 12:5, 6; Prov. 3:34 at Jas. 4:6; Prov. 10:12 at 1 Pet. 4:8; Prov. 11:31, LXX, at 1 Pet. 4:18; Prov. 25:21, 22 at Rom. 12:20 and Prov. 26:11 at 2 Pet. 2:22. |
Page Two | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101994000 | Page Two
Our Cities Their Struggle to Survive 3-12
In the face of crime and overcrowding, why do millions of people choose to live in cities? What are some problems afflicting city dwellers today? These articles open a series to be spread over six issues of Awake!
A Double Life—Who Has to Know? 18
It may be easy for some youngsters to deceive their parents —but what is the price for leading a double life?
Scientists Take Public for a Ride 24
In the interpretation of bone fragments, sometimes the wish is father to the thought, as scientists in Spain discovered with the “Man of Orce.” |
Truth (tr)
1981 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/tr | Chapter 14
How to Identify the True Religion
1. Why is it both logical and Scriptural to say that there is just one true religion?
LOGICALLY there must be just one true religion. This is in harmony with the fact that the true God is a God, “not of disorder, but of peace.” (1 Corinthians 14:33) Furthermore, Jesus Christ spoke of those who practice such religion as worshiping God “with spirit and truth,” and truth is never at disagreement with itself. (John 4:23, 24) But who are these true worshipers today? How can you identify them and know that their worship is indeed the one approved by God?
2. (a) Are all who profess to be Christians practicing the true religion? (b) What rule did Jesus give by which we can distinguish between God’s true servants and the false ones?
2 This cannot be decided simply on the basis of what people and organizations claim to be. In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus pointed out that many would call him “Lord, Lord,” claiming to have done notable things in his name. Yet he would say to them: “I never knew you! Get away from me, you workers of lawlessness.” Not only words but also appearances can be deceptive. Jesus said that false prophets would come in sheep’s covering, while inside they would be like devouring wolves. However, he gave us a rule by which we can distinguish between the true servants of God and the false ones, saying: “By their fruits you will recognize them.” He showed that what really determines whether we are true worshipers of God is not merely our claims or even our apparently commendable works, but our actually doing the will of the heavenly Father.—Matthew 7:15-23.
3. What warning set out by the apostle Paul shows the need for caution?
3 A faithful follower of Jesus, the apostle Paul, also showed the need for caution. He warned that some men would appear to be ministers of righteousness and yet would be false Christians. Outwardly they may not seem bad. But when measured in the light of God’s Word, the Bible, they are shown to be ministers of God’s enemy, Satan, for their works are actually in opposition to God’s will. (2 Corinthians 11:13-15) Our following the lead of such false Christians could only result in our losing out on life eternal.
APPLYING THE RULE
4. What is the most outstanding mark of the true worshipers of God?
4 What, then, are some of the identifying marks of true worshipers of God? What are the fine fruits that they would produce? The Bible tells us that “God is love.” In harmony with this, Jesus showed that the most outstanding mark of those who follow his example in worshiping God is that they would have love among themselves. He said: “By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love among yourselves.” (1 John 4:8; John 13:35) For such love to be truly an identifying mark, it could not be merely a matter of pretending to be nice to one another, could it? It must be love that deeply affects every aspect of one’s daily living. It should influence how one treats the other members of one’s household. It ought to affect one’s attitude toward people of other races and nations. True worshipers of God show love, not only in word, but also in action. They seek what is truly in the best interests of others.—1 John 3:18.
5. How do religious organizations and their members today measure up with regard to this main mark of true religion?
5 Do the religious organizations with which you have been acquainted have this mark of identification? Do they instill in their members a love that is so strong that it remains true even in difficult times? What do they do, for example, when tension between worldly nations leads to war? The facts show that by far the majority of them have been willing for their members to go out on the battlefield and slaughter their fellow believers of another nationality at the command of worldly men. Do you think such a course is according to God’s Word and really reflects the spirit of God?—1 John 3:10-12; Matthew 5:44.
6. (a) Are there persons who have shown true Christian love even in times of worldly conflict? (b) How is their love more than a mere refraining from doing harm to others?
6 Yet, as you know, not everyone has followed this course. Some have been able to say with the apostle Paul: “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not wage warfare according to what we are in the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not fleshly.” (2 Corinthians 10:3, 4) They have not been guilty of living a lie by saying, “I love God,” while hating their brother of another nationality. (1 John 4:20, 21) Those who truly imitate Jesus, not only refrain from doing harm to others, but also manifest love in other ways. How? By their unity with fellow Christians in all lands, by the way they deal with their neighbors and by their loving efforts to help others to learn about God.—Galatians 6:10.
7. What viewpoint toward the Bible does true religion encourage, and how did God’s Son set the pattern in this?
7 Another mark of true religion and of those who practice it is respect for God’s Word. God’s Son when on earth set the pattern in this by showing the highest respect for the inspired Scriptures. He quoted them as the final authority on matters. He continually referred his hearers to God’s Word, encouraging them to read and apply it. (Matthew 19:4-6; Luke 24:44, 45) He showed his deep respect for the Bible by living in accord with its teachings every day. The fulfillment of God’s Word meant more to him than even his own life. (Matthew 26:53-56) Never did he downgrade the Bible; rather, he condemned those who failed to teach in harmony with it and who tried to weaken its force with their own teachings.—Mark 7:9-13.
8. What kind of statements by clergymen of Christendom indicate that they are not following the example of God’s Son and his apostles in this matter?
8 What can we say in this regard about the many church organizations of Christendom today? When you hear or read statements by clergymen who refer to parts of the Bible as “myths,” or who favor the theory of evolution over the Bible teaching of creation, would you say that they are encouraging respect for God’s Word? Or when you read statements in which such church leaders argue that sex relations outside of marriage are not necessarily wrong, or that even homosexuality can be quite proper, would you say that they are encouraging people to use the Bible as their guide? They certainly are not following the example of God’s Son and his apostles.—Matthew 15:18, 19; Galatians 5:19-21; Romans 1:24-27.
9. Why is the worship of even many who have the Bible not pleasing to God?
9 Do the fruits manifest in the lives of the members of these churches show that they truly respect the Word of God? From your own experience, would you say that most people who go to a church building on Sunday apply Bible principles in their home life and in their dealings with others on Monday and during the rest of the week? God’s Word shows that there are persons who may have the Bible and even study it but whose works prove that they disown the God they claim to know. (Titus 1:16; John 5:39, 40) The form of worship that they practice is not pleasing to God, because they do not allow his Word to exercise genuine power in their lives.—2 Timothy 3:5.
10. (a) How can we know if the bad fruits identify not merely individuals, but the religious organization itself? (b) What serious decision must a person make if he has found that the teachings of his church do not all line up with the Bible?
10 At first one might reason that it is simply one minister who is wrong or certain church members who do not do right. But what if the minister who downgrades the Bible continues to hold his position? And what if the church members who do wrong continue to be in good standing? Then it is time to face the fact that the bad fruits identify the religious organization itself. If that is true, you will, without exception, find that the teachings of the organization do not all line up with the Bible. If you have read the previous chapters of this book and considered the Bible texts found there, you may realize that this is true of the religion with which you have been associated. If so, then you have a serious problem. It is the problem of making a decision either to accept the truthfulness of the Bible or to reject it in favor of teachings that the Bible does not support. (Acts 17:11) What you do, of course, must be your own decision. However, you should weigh matters carefully, since the decision you make will affect your standing with God and your prospects of eternal life in his new system.
11. (a) How does true religion treat God’s name, as indicated by Jesus Christ? (b) So what must we do if we are to gain salvation?
11 A further requirement of true religion is that it must sanctify God’s name. Why so? Because when Jesus Christ taught his followers how to pray, he showed them that this should be their first concern. “You must pray, then, this way,” he said: “Our Father in the heavens, let your name be sanctified.” (Matthew 6:9) This means holding the name sacred, treating it as something holy. Jesus himself certainly did this. He did not fail to use his Father’s name, nor did he treat it as unimportant. To the contrary, in prayer to his Father, Jesus said: “I have made your name known to them and will make it known.” (John 17:26) He knew that it is God’s purpose for his name to be glorified in all the earth, and he set the example in proclaiming and honoring that name. (John 12:28; Isaiah 12:4, 5) Also, the Scriptures show that the main purpose for the existence of the congregation that God has called out of the world is to be “a people for his name.” (Acts 15:14) If you are to gain salvation, you, too, must know and honor the name of God.—Romans 10:13, 14.
12. (a) Are the churches In general measuring up to this requirement of true worship? (b) Are there any who bear witness to the name of God?
12 Now, stop and ask yourself: What religious group is most prominently known for publishing the name of God, as Jesus did? The churches in general avoid the use of the name Jehovah; and, though some of them say that they favor the form “Yahweh,” they seldom use that either. Some have even gone to the extent of removing God’s name from their versions of the Bible. For example, the Revised Standard Version, which is now distributed with the backing of both Protestants and Catholics, omits the name Jehovah completely, although it appears in the original Hebrew text nearly seven thousand times. Are these organizations measuring up to this requirement of true religion? Really, what group does bear witness to the name of God, as Jesus did? (Revelation 1:5; Isaiah 43:10-12) If you were to talk to your neighbors and refer repeatedly to Jehovah, using his sacred name, with what organization do you think they would associate you? That is not a difficult question to answer. There is only one people that notably follow Jesus’ example in this regard.
13. (a) What must true worshipers advocate as man’s only hope? (b) How do they do this?
13 True worshipers also proclaim the kingdom of God as man’s true hope. They could not do otherwise and be pleasing to Jehovah God, because he has clearly stated that the Kingdom is his provision for governing the earth. (Daniel 2:44; 7:13, 14) Jesus set the example by going from one end of the land to the other “preaching and declaring the good news of the kingdom of God.” (Luke 8:1) He and his apostles did this by going from village to village and “from house to house.” (Acts 20:20) Jesus also foretold that in these “last days” “this good news of the kingdom” would be preached in all the earth for a witness.—Matthew 24:14.
14. (a) Instead of God’s kingdom, in favor of what do we often hear religious leaders speak and pray? (b) Who are the people that come to your door preaching the Kingdom as mankind’s true hope?
14 Today we often hear religious leaders speaking on behalf of political organizations such as the United Nations and praying for them. But who are doing the preaching of the good news about God’s kingdom as Jesus foretold? If someone comes to your door or to your neighbor’s door and you hear him talking about God’s kingdom as mankind’s true hope, with what organization do you associate that person? This is a principal activity of those who actually do the will of the heavenly Father in imitation of his Son Jesus.—1 Peter 2:21.
15. Name another vital requirement of true religion, as explained at James 1:27.
15 Yet another requirement of true religion is that it keep separate from the world and its affairs. The Bible, at James 1:27, shows that, if our worship is to be clean and undefiled from the standpoint of God, we must keep ourselves “without spot from the world.” This is an important matter, for, “whoever . . . wants to be a friend of the world is constituting himself an enemy of God.” (James 4:4) You can appreciate why this is so serious when you remember that the Bible points out that the ruler of the world is God’s chief adversary, Satan the Devil.—John 12:31.
16. From what you have observed, are the churches in your community, and their members, really “no part of the world”?
16 Do the facts show that the churches in your community take this to heart? Are the clergy, as well as the members of the congregations, really “no part of the world,” as Jesus said that his true followers would be? (John 15:19) Or are they deeply involved in the world’s affairs, in its nationalism, its politics and its class struggles? You do not need someone else to answer these questions for you. The activities of the churches are widely publicized, and you know what is going on in them. If there are people in your community who, because of their religion, refrain from such activities, you no doubt know who they are too.
17. (a) To be the true religion, to how many of these requirements must a religion conform? (b) As shown in the Bible, how many true religions are there?
17 Now, after reviewing these identifying marks of the true religion that God has provided for us in his Word, what do we conclude? The question at issue is not whether a certain religious group appears to meet one or two of these requirements, nor whether some of its doctrines conform to the Bible. Far more than that, the true religion must measure up in all these respects and its teachings must all be in full harmony with God’s Word. Only in this way can such religion truly be pleasing to Jehovah God. There are not many religions meeting these requirements. The Bible shows that there is only “one faith.”—Ephesians 4:5.
18. (a) In the light of the evidence, whom does this book point to as the true worshipers today? Is that what you believe? (b) What is the best way to get well acquainted with Jehovah’s witnesses?
18 Who, then, are the ones who form the body of true worshipers today? On the basis of the evidence, which is known or available to persons in all parts of the earth, we do not hesitate to say that they are the Christian witnesses of Jehovah. For you to share that conviction you need to get well acquainted with them. The best way is to attend their meetings at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. In this way you can observe for yourself how the organization functions and the way in which those associated with it apply God’s Word in their own lives. Since God assures us that practicing true religion brings great outputment now and opens up the way for eternal life in his new system of things, it surely will be worth your while to make such an investigation. (Deuteronomy 30:19, 20) You have our warm invitation to do so. Why not investigate now? |
“Rightly Disposed” Ones Are Responding | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2008044 | “Rightly Disposed” Ones Are Responding
“All those who were rightly disposed for everlasting life became believers.”—ACTS 13:48.
1, 2. How did early Christians respond to Jesus’ prophecy that the good news would be preached in all the inhabited earth?
THE Bible book of Acts preserves the exciting account of how the early Christians responded to Jesus’ prophecy that the good news of the Kingdom would be preached throughout the inhabited earth. (Matt. 24:14) Zealous preachers blazed the trail, so to speak, for all those who would follow them. As a result of the fervent witnessing of Jesus’ disciples in Jerusalem, thousands of people, including “a great crowd of priests,” flocked to the first-century congregation.—Acts 2:41; 4:4; 6:7.
2 Early missionaries helped many more to embrace Christianity. Philip, for one, went to Samaria, where crowds paid attention to his words. (Acts 8:5-8) Paul traveled widely with various companions, preaching the Christian message in Cyprus, parts of Asia Minor, Macedonia, Greece, and Italy. In cities where he preached, multitudes of both Jews and Greeks became believers. (Acts 14:1; 16:5; 17:4) Titus carried on a ministry in Crete. (Titus 1:5) Peter was busy in Babylon, and by the time he wrote his first letter, about 62-64 C.E., the activity of the Christians was well-known in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia. (1 Pet. 1:1; 5:13) What exciting times those were! So zealous were those first-century Christian preachers that their enemies claimed that they had “overturned the inhabited earth.”—Acts 17:6; 28:22.
3. What results are being obtained today by Kingdom proclaimers in their preaching activities, and how does that make you feel?
3 In modern times too, the Christian congregation has been blessed with remarkable growth. Are you not encouraged when you read the annual report of Jehovah’s Witnesses and see the results that are being obtained worldwide? Does it not warm your heart to know that Kingdom proclaimers conducted more than six million Bible studies during the 2007 service year? Moreover, the attendance at the Memorial of Jesus Christ’s death last year indicates that some ten million people who are not Witnesses of Jehovah were sufficiently interested in the good news to attend this important commemoration. This indicates that there is still much work to do.
4. Who are responding to the Kingdom message?
4 Today, as in the first century, “all those who [are] rightly disposed for everlasting life” are responding to the message of truth. (Acts 13:48) Jehovah is drawing such people into his organization. (Read Haggai 2:7.) What attitude toward the Christian ministry do we need to maintain in order to cooperate fully with this ingathering work?
Preach Impartially
5. What kind of people have Jehovah’s favor?
5 The first-century Christians understood that “God is not partial, but in every nation the man that fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him.” (Acts 10:34, 35) Whether a person has a good relationship with Jehovah or not depends on his exercising faith in Jesus’ ransom sacrifice. (John 3:16, 36) And it is Jehovah’s will that “all sorts of men should be saved and come to an accurate knowledge of truth.”—1 Tim. 2:3, 4.
6. Against what must Kingdom preachers guard, and why?
6 It would be wrong for proclaimers of the good news to prejudge people on the basis of their race, social status, appearance, religious background, or any other characteristic. Consider for a moment: Are you not grateful that the person who first spoke to you about Scriptural truths was free of prejudices toward you? So why hold back from offering a potentially lifesaving message to anyone who might listen to it?—Read Matthew 7:12.
7. Why must we refrain from judging those to whom we preach?
7 Jehovah has appointed Jesus as Judge; hence, we do not have the right to judge anybody. That is fitting, since—unlike Jesus—we can judge only by the “mere appearance to [our] eyes” or “the thing heard by [our] ears,” whereas Jesus can read the intimate thoughts and reasonings of the heart.—Isa. 11:1-5; 2 Tim. 4:1.
8, 9. (a) What kind of person was Saul before he became a Christian? (b) What should the apostle Paul’s experience teach us?
8 People from virtually every background have become servants of Jehovah. One outstanding example is that of Saul of Tarsus, who came to be known as the apostle Paul. Saul, a Pharisee, was a bitter opposer of Christians. His sincere conviction that they were wrong led him to persecute the Christian congregation. (Gal. 1:13) From a human standpoint, he must have seemed to be one of the least likely people to become a Christian. Yet, Jesus saw something good in Saul’s heart and chose him to fulfill a special commission. As a result, Saul became one of the most active and zealous members of the first-century Christian congregation.
9 What does the experience of the apostle Paul teach us? In our territory, perhaps there are groups of people who seem hostile to the message we bear. Though it may appear doubtful that any of them will ever become true Christians, we should not stop trying to reason with them. Sometimes even the most unlikely individuals prove to be receptive. Our commission is to keep on preaching to all “without letup.”—Read Acts 5:42.
Blessings Await Those Who Preach “Without Letup”
10. Why should we not hold back from preaching to people who may seem intimidating? Relate local experiences.
10 Appearances can be deceptive. Ignacio,a for example, began studying the Bible with Jehovah’s Witnesses while he was in prison in a South American country. He was feared because of his violent nature. Consequently, inmates who made and sold items to fellow prisoners used Ignacio to collect debts from those who were slow to pay. However, as Ignacio made spiritual progress and applied what he was learning, this once violent bully became a kind person. No one uses him to collect debts anymore, yet Ignacio is output that Bible truths and God’s spirit have transformed his personality. He is also grateful for the open-mindedness of the Kingdom publishers who made the effort to study with him.
11. Why do we keep returning to visit people?
11 One of the reasons why we keep returning to visit people with whom we have already spoken about the good news is that their circumstances and attitudes can and do change. Since our last visit, some may have been affected by serious illness, loss of a job, or the death of a loved one. (Read Ecclesiastes 9:11.) World events may motivate people to think seriously about their future. Such developments can cause a person who was previously apathetic—or even opposed—to respond favorably. Hence, we should not hold back from sharing the good news with others on every suitable occasion.
12. How should we view the people to whom we preach, and why?
12 Classifying and judging other people appears to be a human tendency. Yet, Jehovah sees people as individuals. He sees the potential of each one. (Read 1 Samuel 16:7.) In our ministry, we should strive to do the same. Many experiences show the good that results from having a positive view of all to whom we preach.
13, 14. (a) Why did a pioneer react negatively to a woman she met in the ministry? (b) What can we learn from this experience?
13 Sandra, a pioneer sister, was engaged in the house-to-house ministry on an island in the Caribbean when she met Ruth, who was deeply involved in carnival celebrations. Ruth had twice been crowned national carnival queen. She showed an unusual interest in what Sandra was saying, so a Bible study was arranged. Sandra recalls: “As I walked into her living room, I was greeted by a large photo of Ruth in full carnival regalia, as well as trophies that she had won. I wrongly assumed that someone who was so popular and so involved in carnival festivities could not have an interest in the truth. So I stopped calling on her.”
14 Some time later, Ruth appeared at the Kingdom Hall, and when the meeting was over, she asked Sandra, “Why have you stopped coming to study with me?” Sandra apologized and arranged to resume the study. Ruth made rapid progress, took down her carnival pictures, began engaging in all congregation activities, and dedicated her life to Jehovah. Of course, Sandra came to recognize that her initial reaction was wrong.
15, 16. (a) What resulted from one publisher’s witnessing to a relative? (b) Why should a relative’s background not discourage us from witnessing to him or her?
15 Positive results have also come to many who have witnessed to unbelieving family members, even when it seemed unlikely that these would respond favorably. Take, for example, the case of Joyce, a Christian sister in the United States. Her brother-in-law had been in and out of jail ever since he was a teenager. “People said that his life amounted to nothing,” relates Joyce, “because he dealt in drugs, was a thief, and did a host of other bad things. Even so, against all odds, I kept on sharing Bible truths with him for 37 years.” Her patient efforts to help her relative were richly rewarded when he finally began to study the Bible with Jehovah’s Witnesses and made drastic changes in his life. Recently, at the age of 50, Joyce’s brother-in-law was baptized at a district convention in California, U.S.A. Joyce says: “I cried for joy. I am so happy that I never gave up on him!”
16 You might hesitate to speak to certain relatives about Bible truths because of their strong religious convictions. Yet, no such reluctance prevented Joyce from speaking to her brother-in-law. After all, how can one know what is in another person’s heart? That person may be searching in all sincerity for religious truth. Hence, do not hold back from giving him or her the opportunity to find it.—Read Proverbs 3:27.
An Effective Bible Study Aid
17, 18. (a) What do reports from around the world indicate about the value of What Does the Bible Really Teach? (b) What positive experiences have you had using this book?
17 Reports from countries around the world show that many honesthearted individuals are responding well to the Bible study aid What Does the Bible Really Teach? Penni, a pioneer sister in the United States, started several studies using this publication. Two of them were with older people who were devout members of their churches. Penni was not sure how they would react to Scriptural truths presented in the Bible Teach book. Nevertheless, she writes, “Because of the clear, logical, and concise way in which the information is presented, they readily accepted what they were learning as the truth, without argument or emotional turmoil.”
18 Pat, a publisher in Britain, began to study the Bible with a woman who was a refugee from an Asian country. The woman was forced to flee her country after her husband and sons had been taken away by rebel soldiers, never to be seen again. Her life had been threatened, her home had been burned down, and she had been gang-raped. All of this made her feel that she had nothing to live for, and she considered suicide on a number of occasions. The Bible study, however, gave her hope. “The simplicity of the explanations and illustrations in the Bible Teach book had a dramatic effect on her,” writes Pat. The student made rapid progress, qualified to become an unbaptized publisher, and expressed her desire to be baptized at the next assembly. What a joy it is to help sincere people understand and appreciate the hope offered by the Scriptures!
“Let Us Not Give Up in Doing What Is Fine”
19. Why is the preaching work so urgent?
19 With each passing day, the urgency of our commission to preach and make disciples becomes more pressing. Thousands of rightly disposed ones respond to our preaching every year. Yet, “the great day of Jehovah is near,” meaning that those who remain in spiritual darkness are “staggering to the slaughter.”—Zeph. 1:14; Prov. 24:11.
20. What should each of us be determined to do?
20 We can still help such people. But for us to do so, it is vital that we imitate the first-century Christians, who “continued without letup teaching and declaring the good news about the Christ, Jesus.” (Acts 5:42) Follow their example by persevering despite adversity, by paying attention to your “art of teaching,” and by preaching to all without partiality! “Let us not give up in doing what is fine,” for if we persevere, we shall reap the bounteous blessings of divine approval.—2 Tim. 4:2; read Galatians 6:9.
[Footnote]
a Some of the names have been changed.
How Would You Answer?
• Who are responding to the good news?
• Why should we avoid prejudging those to whom we preach?
• What results are being obtained with the publication What Does the Bible Really Teach?
[Pictures on page 13]
Thousands of honesthearted individuals are responding
[Pictures on page 15]
What can we learn from the changes made by the apostle Paul?
[Picture on page 16]
Proclaimers of the good news do not prejudge people |
Is It All Right for Christians to Use Contraceptives? | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502012501 | Is It All Right for Christians to Use Contraceptives?
The Bible’s answer
Jesus did not command his followers to have or not to have children. Neither did any of Jesus’ disciples issue any such directive. Nowhere does the Bible explicitly condemn birth control. In this matter, the principle outlined at Romans 14:12 applies: “Each of us will render an account for himself to God.”
Married couples, therefore, are free to decide for themselves whether they will raise a family or not. They may also decide how many children they will have and when they will have them. If a husband and wife choose to use a nonabortive form of contraception to avoid pregnancy, that is their personal decision and responsibility. No one should judge them.—Romans 14:4, 10-13. |
A Good Impression | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101974007 | A Good Impression
PARENTS know how “impressionable” young children are. Some of the experiences they have may seem quite minor to adults. Yet from these experiences in childhood young people can learn lessons that will last throughout their life.
Some Christian at a district assembly of Jehovah’s witnesses in San Antonio, Texas, helped to provide just such a lesson—in honesty—for a ten-year-old lad. This young boy was attending the assembly with his parents and, after the end of the day’s sessions, walked with them through an amusement park section of the “Hemisphere” on their way to their motel. Not long thereafter, the Watch Tower Society received the following letter from this youngster:
“I appreciated the ‘Divine Name’ District Assembly. The departments were run very well. Something strange happened while I was going to the motel. My new wallet fell out of my pocket. I was very upset. My wallet contained 3 dollars and my library card. We went to San Antonio and walked the whole hemisphere grounds. The next day I checked at the Lost and Found Department at the assembly. It wasn’t there. I checked about 30 minutes later. I checked again. There it was. . . .
“May Jehovah Be With You.
[Signed]”
How fine it is when an individual by manifesting Christianity can provide such a lesson in honesty for a youngster! |
Greatest Man (gt)
1991 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/gt | Chapter 124
Handed Over and Led Away
WHEN Pilate, moved by the quiet dignity of the tortured Jesus, again tries to release him, the chief priests become even angrier. They are determined to let nothing interfere with their wicked purpose. So they renew their shouting: “Impale him! Impale him!”
“Take him yourselves and impale him,” Pilate responds. (Contrary to their earlier claims, the Jews may have authority to execute criminals for religious offenses that are of sufficient gravity.) Then, for at least the fifth time, Pilate declares Jesus innocent, saying: “I do not find any fault in him.”
The Jews, seeing that their political charges have failed to produce results, fall back on the religious charge of blasphemy used hours earlier at Jesus’ trial before the Sanhedrin. “We have a law,” they say, “and according to the law he ought to die, because he made himself God’s son.”
This charge is new to Pilate, and it causes him to become more fearful. By now he realizes that Jesus is no ordinary man, even as his wife’s dream and Jesus’ remarkable strength of personality indicate. But “God’s son”? Pilate knows that Jesus is from Galilee. Yet, could he possibly have lived before? Taking him back into the palace again, Pilate asks: “Where are you from?”
Jesus remains silent. Earlier he had told Pilate that he is a king but that his Kingdom is no part of this world. No further explanation now would serve a useful purpose. However, Pilate’s pride is hurt by the refusal to answer, and he flares up at Jesus with the words: “Are you not speaking to me? Do you not know I have authority to release you and I have authority to impale you?”
“You would have no authority at all against me unless it had been granted to you from above,” Jesus responds respectfully. He is referring to the grant by God of authority to human rulers to administer earthly affairs. Jesus adds: “This is why the man that handed me over to you has greater sin.” Indeed, the high priest Caiaphas and his accomplices and Judas Iscariot all bear heavier responsibility than Pilate for the unjust treatment of Jesus.
Impressed even more by Jesus and fearful that Jesus may have a divine origin, Pilate renews his efforts to release him. The Jews, however, rebuff Pilate. They repeat their political charge, craftily threatening: “If you release this man, you are not a friend of Caesar. Every man making himself a king speaks against Caesar.”
Despite the dire implications, Pilate brings Jesus outside once more. “See! Your king!” he appeals yet again.
“Take him away! Take him away! Impale him!”
“Shall I impale your king?” Pilate asks in desperation.
The Jews have chafed under the rule of the Romans. Indeed, they despise Rome’s domination! Yet, hypocritically, the chief priests say: “We have no king but Caesar.”
Fearing for his political position and reputation, Pilate finally caves in under the Jews’ relentless demands. He hands Jesus over. The soldiers strip Jesus of the purple cloak and clothe him with his outer garments. As Jesus is led off to be impaled, he is made to bear his own torture stake.
By now it is midmorning on Friday, Nisan 14; perhaps it is approaching noon. Jesus has been up since early Thursday morning, and he has suffered one agonizing experience after another. Understandably, his strength soon gives out under the weight of the stake. So a passerby, a certain Simon of Cyrene in Africa, is impressed into service to carry it for him. As they proceed along, many people, including women, follow, beating themselves in grief and bewailing Jesus.
Turning to the women, Jesus says: “Daughters of Jerusalem, stop weeping for me. On the contrary, weep for yourselves and for your children; because, look! days are coming in which people will say, ‘Happy are the barren women, and the wombs that did not give birth and the breasts that did not nurse!’ . . . Because if they do these things when the tree is moist, what will occur when it is withered?”
Jesus is referring to the tree of the Jewish nation, which still has some moisture of life in it because of Jesus’ presence and the existence of a remnant that believe in him. But when these are taken out from the nation, only a spiritually dead tree will remain, yes, a withered national organization. Oh, what cause for weeping there will be when the Roman armies, serving as God’s executioners, devastate the Jewish nation! John 19:6-17; 18:31; Luke 23:24-31; Matthew 27:31, 32; Mark 15:20, 21.
▪ What charge against Jesus do the religious leaders make when their political charges fail to produce results?
▪ Why does Pilate become more fearful?
▪ Who bear the greater sin for what happens to Jesus?
▪ Finally, how do the priests get Pilate to hand Jesus over for execution?
▪ What does Jesus tell the women who weep for him, and what does he mean by referring to the tree as being “moist” and then “withered”? |
Sing Praises (ssb)
1984 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/Ssb | Song 47
Jehovah, Our Strength and Our Might
(Isaiah 12:2)
1. Gracious Jehovah, our strength and our might,
You are our Savior; in you we delight.
We are your Witnesses bearing your news,
Whether men hear or they proudly refuse.
(Chorus)
2. Through Christ your Son we now seek joy and peace;
Once blinded eyes behold truth e’er increase.
Searching the Scriptures, we hear your command;
Making our choice, with Jehovah we stand.
(Chorus)
3. Gladly, O God, we keep doing your will.
Though Satan slaps us, we’re trusting you still.
Though he may slay us, O help us to be
Witnesses holding fast integrity.
(CHORUS)
Jehovah our Rock, our strength and our might,
Your name we make known both day and night.
Glorious Jehovah, almighty in pow’r,
You are our hiding place; you are our tow’r. |
Great Teacher (te)
1971 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/te | Chapter 14
Power over Wind and Waves
HAVE you ever been in a storm when the wind was blowing very hard?— Were you afraid?— It is good to be careful at a time like that. For you could be hurt in a bad storm.
So what should you do when the wind starts blowing hard, or when you see lightning flash from the sky? What do you think?— The wise thing to do is to go indoors. If you don’t, the wind could blow down a branch of a tree on you. Or lightning could strike you. Hundreds of persons are killed every year in storms.
You and I cannot stop strong winds from blowing. And we cannot calm the big waves of the sea. In fact, there is no human alive that can do this. But did you know that there once lived on earth someone who had power over wind and waves?— It was Jesus, the Great Teacher. Would you like to hear what he did?—
Late one day after he had been teaching by the Sea of Galilee, he said to his disciples: “Let us cross to the other side of the lake.” So they set out in a boat and started to sail across the lake.
Jesus was very tired. He had worked hard all day. So he went to the back of the boat and lay down on a pillow. Soon he was fast asleep.
The disciples stayed awake to keep the boat on its course. Everything was all right for a while, but then a strong wind sprang up. It blew harder and harder, and the waves kept getting bigger. The waves began splashing into the boat, and the boat started to fill up with water. The disciples were afraid they were going to sink.
But Jesus was not afraid. He was still asleep in the back of the boat. Finally, the disciples woke him up, and said: ‘Teacher, Teacher, save us; we are about to die in this storm.’
At that, Jesus got up and spoke to the wind and the waves. “Hush! Be quiet!” he said. Right away the wind stopped blowing. The lake became calm.
The disciples were amazed. They had never seen anything like it before. They began saying to one another: “Who really is this, for he orders even the winds and the water, and they obey him?”—Mark 4:35-41; Luke 8:22-25.
Do you know who Jesus is?— Do you know from where he receives his great power?— The disciples should not have been afraid when Jesus was there with them, because Jesus was no ordinary man. He could do wonderful things that no other person could do. Let me tell you about something else that he once did on a stormy sea.
It was sometime later, on another day. When it became evening Jesus told his disciples to board a boat and go ahead of him to the other side of the sea. Then Jesus went up into the mountain by himself. It was a quiet place where he could pray to his Father, Jehovah God.
The disciples got into the boat, and started to sail across the sea. But soon a wind began blowing. It blew harder and harder. It was now nighttime.
The men took down the sail and began to row. But they were not getting very far, because the strong wind was blowing against them. The boat was rocking back and forth in the high waves, and water was splashing in. The men worked hard trying to reach shore, but they could not.
Jesus was still alone in the mountain. He had been there a long time. But now he could see that his disciples were in danger in the high waves. So he came down from the mountain to the edge of the sea. He did not jump in and start to swim, and he did not wade into the water. No, but Jesus started walking out over the top of the stormy sea just like we would walk on green grass!
What would happen if you tried to walk on water? Do you know?— You would sink, and you might drown. But Jesus was different. He had special powers.
Jesus had a long walk of about three or four miles to reach the boat. So it was about dawn when the disciples saw Jesus coming toward them over the water. But they couldn’t believe what they saw. They were very frightened, and they cried out in their fear.
Then Jesus spoke to them: “Take courage, it is I; have no fear.”
As soon as Jesus got up into the boat, the storm stopped. The disciples were again amazed. They fell down before Jesus, and said: “You are really God’s Son.”—Matthew 14:23-33; John 6:16-21.
Wouldn’t it have been wonderful to live back then and to see Jesus do things like that?— Well, we can live at a time when Jesus will do things that are just as wonderful.
The Bible says that God has made Jesus the Ruler in the kingdom of God, and soon only his government will rule over this earth. No one who is living then will ever have to be afraid of a storm. Jesus will use his power over wind and waves for the blessing of all who obey him. Won’t that be a wonderful time in which to live?—
(Other texts showing the great power of Jesus as the one whom God makes Ruler in the kingdom of God are: Matthew 28:18; Daniel 7:13, 14; Ephesians 1:20-22.) |
Sing Praises (ssb)
1984 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/Ssb | Song 157
Worship Jehovah During Youth
(Ecclesiastes 12:1)
1. Out of the mouth of babes, God once brought praise;
They, to hail Jesus, their voices did raise.
Yes, even babes can their God magnify,
Join with their elders and him sanctify.
2. To Christian parents who love what is true,
Godly fear is by their own children due.
Standing for God, they to teach have the right.
Children, obey them and bring them delight.
3. O Christian youths, strive to keep your way clean;
Learn while you’re young on Jehovah to lean.
But to be popular never do toil,
For bad companions good habits will spoil.
4. If you remember your God in your youth
And serve Jehovah in spirit and truth,
As you grow older, more joy you will know
And make God’s own heart with gladness to glow. |
How to Help Those With Mental Health Challenges | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2023009 | How to Help Those With Mental Health Challenges
THE BIBLE SAYS: “A true friend shows love at all times and is a brother who is born for times of distress.”—PROVERBS 17:17.
What That Means
We can easily be overwhelmed when a friend is suffering from mental distress. But we can show how much we care by helping our friend to cope with a distressing mental health problem. How?
How This Can Help
“Be quick to listen.”—JAMES 1:19.
One of the best ways to help your friend is to listen when he wants to talk. Do not feel that you have to respond to everything he says. Acknowledge what he says, and try to remain compassionate. Keep an open mind, and avoid jumping to conclusions or being judgmental. Remember that he may say things that he does not mean and later regrets.—Job 6:2, 3.
“Speak consolingly.”—1 THESSALONIANS 5:14.
Your friend may be anxious, or he may struggle with feelings of worthlessness. By reassuring him that you care, you can be comforting and encouraging, even if you do not know exactly what to say.
“A true friend shows love at all times.”—PROVERBS 17:17.
Offer practical help. Instead of assuming that you know how to help, ask what you can do. If your friend has a hard time expressing what he needs, try suggesting something practical you could do together, such as going for a walk. Or you could offer to help with shopping, cleaning, or some other task.—Galatians 6:2.
“Be patient.”—1 THESSALONIANS 5:14.
Your friend may not always be ready to talk. Reassure your friend that you will gladly listen when he does feel like talking. Because of his illness, your friend may say or do things that hurt you. He may cancel plans with you or become irritable. Be patient and understanding as you offer the support he needs.—Proverbs 18:24.
Offering Your Support Can Make a Difference
“I make sure that I am a friend that she can count on. Even though I don’t have the solution to her problems, I make it a point to listen to what she has to say. Sometimes all she needs is a listening ear to make her feel better.”—Farrah,a whose friend suffers from eating and anxiety disorders and clinical depression.
“One of my friends is so kind and positive. She invited me to her home for a delicious meal. In such a warm and loving atmosphere, I was able to express my feelings. That really encouraged me!”—Ha-eun, who suffers from clinical depression.
“Patience is so important. When my wife does something that upsets me, I remind myself that it is an expression of her illness, not who she is on the inside. This helps me to avoid becoming angry and to be more considerate toward her.”—Jacob, whose wife suffers from clinical depression.
“My wife has been an incredible support and comfort to me. When I feel overwhelmed with anxiety, she never forces me to do anything that I don’t feel like doing. Sometimes that means that she doesn’t get to do something that she would have loved to do. Her self-sacrificing spirit and generosity are irreplaceable.”—Enrico, who suffers from anxiety disorder.
a Some names have been changed.
For More Help:
Read the article “When a Loved One Is Sick,” in the October 2015 issue of Awake! on jw.org. |
Many Religions—Why? | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101984002 | Many Religions—Why?
“WE SMILE today at Pueblo Indian rain dances. . . . But what do we do when we are desperate? . . . On the two occasions when my life was shattered by the anguish of personal crisis, I did as those Indians did—I prayed for help.” Thus wrote philosophy professor Huston Smith in the introduction of the book Great Religions of the World.
Man’s need to reach out to something higher and mightier when he is under stress appears to be both basic and universal. Anthropologists and historians tell us that from the beginning, man felt this need when mystified by the forces of nature, threatened by ferocious wild beasts and perplexed by death and the hereafter. This, they say, coupled with fear of the unknown, brought about the birth of religion.
For example, commenting on the beginning of the Shinto religion, the book Religions in Japan says: “Anything which evoked a feeling of awe was revered as being particularly imbued with divine or mysterious power; therefore, the forces of nature, especially awe-inspiring trees, rocks or mountains, and other inexplicable natural phenomena became objects of worship. These were given the name kami (god).” In time, legends, rites, rituals and shrines developed. These were passed on from generation to generation. And thus was born the Shinto religion.
According to this idea, the Sumerians, the Egyptians, the Hindus, the Chinese and all the other ancient civilizations devised their own forms of worship, their own religions, independently. These were then influenced by the people’s way of life—their foods, their customs, even the climate and the geography of their land. The result is the diversity of religion we see today.
Independent or From One Source?
Such an explanation is satisfactory only to a degree, however. Though accounting for the great diversity seen among religions, it leaves some basic questions unanswered. For example, if all the different religions developed independently of one another, then how are we to account for the many fundamental similarities among them that cannot simply be attributed to natural human response?
Take, for instance, the stories and legends regarding the origin of man. Although details vary, the belief that man was made from the dust of the earth is widespread. One Greek legend says that Prometheus molded the first humans from clay and Athene breathed life into them. The Peruvian Indians used the term alpa camasca (animated earth) to describe the first man. A North American Indian tribe, the Mandan, believed that the ‘Great Spirit’ made two figures from clay and brought them to life by the breath of his mouth. One ancient Chinese legend says that P’an-ku made human figures from clay with elements of yin and yang; another legend tells of Nu-kua, a mythical figure, modeling men and women from yellow clay. The list goes on and on, including legends among the tribesmen of Africa and inhabitants of the islands of Micronesia.
Even more amazing is the universality of legends dealing with the destruction of wicked ancestors in a deluge and the survival or reappearance of the human race thereafter. Peoples and tribes in far-flung places of the earth recount varying versions of the same story.
What Was the Source?
Anyone who is even vaguely familiar with the Bible will recognize right away the similarity of such legends with the accounts in the Bible of creation and the Noachian Flood. But what, you might ask, does the Bible have to do with the legends of the Greeks, the American and the Peruvian Indians, the Chinese and all the rest? Not that these religions were inspired by the Bible. Rather, the Bible outlines the way the many religions came into being in a manner that accounts for both their diversity and their similarity.
In his book The Outline of History, H. G. Wells wrote: “Wherever primitive civilization set its foot in Africa, Europe, or western Asia, a temple arose, and where the civilization is most ancient, in Egypt and in Sumer, there the temple is most in evidence. . . . The beginnings of civilization and the appearance of temples is simultaneous in history. The two things belong together.”
This is what the Bible book of Genesis tells us: “Now all the earth continued to be of one language and of one set of words. And it came about that in their journeying eastward they eventually discovered a valley plain in the land of Shinar, and they took up dwelling there.” (Genesis 11:1, 2) Shinar is in Mesopotamia, the so-called cradle of civilization.
The account goes on to tell us that as the people settled in the plains of Shinar they rallied together for a building project: “Come on! Let us build ourselves a city and also a tower with its top in the heavens, and let us make a celebrated name for ourselves, for fear we may be scattered over all the surface of the earth.”—Genesis 11:4.
What kind of city and tower were they building? The city, called Babel, or Babylon, was primarily a religious city. No fewer than 53 temples have been found in its ruins. Its worship featured triads of gods, belief in the immortality of the human soul, belief in the underworld, or hell, and astrology. Idolatry, magic, sorcery, divination and the occult all played a major role. The infamous Tower of Babel was not merely a monument or a landmark; other similar structures unearthed in the area indicate that it probably was a ziggurat with several stages, as well as a temple at the top. It would rise above and dominate the city.
What happened to the building project? The Bible record says: “That is why its name was called Babel, because there Jehovah had confused the language of all the earth, and Jehovah had scattered them from there over all the surface of the earth.”—Genesis 11:9.
No longer able to communicate with one another, the builders left off their project and began to move out in different directions. Wherever they went, they brought with them their religious beliefs, ideas, legends and myths. Millennia of local development have resulted in the great diversities seen on the surface of the world’s religions. But underneath there are the unmistakable similarities, evidence that they came from the same source—Babel, or Babylon.
Referring to this common source of false religion, Colonel J. Garnier observed in his book The Worship of the Dead: “Not merely Egyptians, Chaldeans, Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans, but also the Hindus, the Buddhists of China and of Thibet, the Goths, Anglo-Saxons, Druids, Mexicans and Peruvians, the Aborigines of Australia, and even the savages of the South Sea Islands, must have all derived their religious ideas from a common source and a common centre. Everywhere we find the most startling coincidences in rites, ceremonies, customs, traditions, and in the names and relations of their respective gods and goddesses.”
Corroborating the above is this comment by Joseph Campbell in his book The Masks of God: Primitive Mythology: “The archaeology and ethnography of the past half-century have made it clear that the ancient civilizations of the Old World—those of Egypt, Mesopotamia, Crete and Greece, India and China—derived from a single base, and that this community of origin suffices to explain the homologous forms of their mythological and ritual structures.”
The Outcome
The Bible not only provides the background of the great dispersion but also foretells the outcome—the establishment of a world empire of Babylonish false religion. In strong and vivid language she was described as “the great harlot who sits on many waters, with whom the kings of the earth committed fornication . . . Upon her forehead was written a name, a mystery: ‘Babylon the Great, the mother of the harlots and of the disgusting things of the earth.’” (Revelation 17:1, 2, 5) She wields a tremendous influence over not only the masses but also the political, military and commercial systems of the earth.
What has been the result of Babylon the Great’s long domination over the nations and peoples? Under the influence of her many forms of religion, what kind of fruitage has been produced? This we shall consider in the next article.
[Map on page 6]
(For fully formatted text, see publication)
From Babylon religious ideas and myths spread to all parts of the world
ITALY
GREECE
BABYLON
EGYPT
INDIA |
THE BIBLE CHANGES LIVES
Strength Comes From Serving Jehovah | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502016517 | THE BIBLE CHANGES LIVES
Strength Comes From Serving Jehovah
One Bible verse assured Hércules that he could replace his aggressive personality with a new one.
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Holy Spirit (hs)
1976 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/hs | Chapter 9
The New Order That Is Backed by Holy Spirit
1. In spite of Ecclesiastes 1:9, why will the coming order backed by holy spirit be something really new?
WHEN we speak about a coming order that is backed by holy spirit, we can really say: “See this; it is new.” Even wise King Solomon will not be able to apply to it his stated rule: “There is nothing new under the sun.” (Ecclesiastes 1:9, 10) Solomon’s saying has proved to be true till now with regard to the life pattern of man and woman and with regard to the rise and fall of man-made governments. But the order of things that the Creator of heaven and earth will bring in shortly will indeed be something new, something never experienced before in all human history.
2. Why is it to be expected that holy spirit would be behind the promised new order?
2 Holy spirit will be behind the coming new order. And why not? It was behind the writing of the Holy Bible, and this inspired book fairly overflows with the good news about the peaceful new order for trouble-weary mankind. When it is at last brought in within this generation, all those entering into the enjoyment of it will delightedly say: “This is new!” The omnipotent God, Jehovah, will prove true to his promise to mankind: “Look! I am making all things new.”—Revelation 21:5.
3. (a) What are new things about which the book of Revelation speaks? (b) Why will God’s new order not be a patched-up job?
3 Revelation, the last book of the Bible, speaks about new things, a “new name,” a “new song,” “new heaven and a new earth,” and “New Jerusalem.” (Revelation 2:17; 3:12; 5:9; 14:3; 21:1, 2) These are exhilarating things about which to think and talk. And when a person appreciates the nature of the new things that are in store for mankind, it moves him to “sing to Jehovah a new song.” (Psalm 96:1; 98:1; 144:9; 149:1) His new order will not be a patched-up job, a repairing of mankind’s old order, a trying to preserve as much of the old order as is possible and merely adding some new touches to it, thus using man’s old order as a base. This would never work. Jesus Christ himself said:
“No one cuts a patch from a new outer garment and sews it onto an old outer garment; but if he does, then both the new patch tears away and the patch from the new garment does not match the old. Moreover, no one puts new wine into old wineskins; but if he does, then the new wine will burst the wineskins, and it will be spilled out and the wineskins will be ruined. But new wine must be put into new wineskins.”—Luke 5:36-38.
4. Why will the old rebuilt Jerusalem not play a part in the New Order?
4 In accord with this illustration, what God has foretold for mankind will be brand new. Old Jerusalem in the Middle East will not figure in it at all. When God executed his adverse judgment in the year 70 C.E., he had the Jerusalem of Jesus’ day destroyed. The Jerusalem that has been built since has not been built by His command nor by his approved people. (John 4:21) The New Jerusalem is the thing! This will be no city structure here on earth, on the site of the old Jerusalem. New Jerusalem will be heavenly. All we have to do is examine its description as given in Revelation 21:9 through 22:3, and we shall see that, because of its dimensions and features, it would never fit in with the terrain of old Jerusalem. In the inspired description, the New Jerusalem is called “the bride, the Lamb’s wife.”
5. The New Jerusalem is likened to whom, and how does this correspond with the language of Zechariah 9:9?
5 “I saw also,” says the apostle John, “the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God and prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.” (Revelation 21:2) Just as here the New Jerusalem is likened to a woman, a bride, a wife, so the old Jerusalem was likened to a woman. For instance, when Jesus rode into Jerusalem on Nisan 9 (March 27), 33 C.E., as if he were a king-designate riding to his coronation, the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9 came true: “Be very joyful, O daughter of Zion. Shout in triumph, O daughter of Jerusalem. Look! Your king himself comes to you. He is . . . riding upon an ass, even upon a full-grown animal the son of a she-ass.”—Matthew 21:4, 5.
6. How will New Jerusalem compare with the old city as to loveliness, and how does it come down out of heaven from God?
6 Ancient earthly Jerusalem was called “the city of which they used to say, ‘It is the perfection of prettiness.’” (Lamentations 2:15; Psalm 48:1, 2; 50:2) Still, in beauty and glory, it could never compare with the heavenly New Jerusalem. This glorious new city comes down “out of heaven from God.” In what way? In that this new governmental body originates with God and it extends its power and authority down from heaven to the earth, for the all-time good of mankind.—Revelation 21:2.
7. In what way is the holy city, New Jerusalem, “the Lamb’s wife”?
7 In what way is the holy city “the bride, the Lamb’s wife”? In that it is made up of the congregation of Christ’s anointed disciples, his joint heirs in the Messianic kingdom. (Ephesians 5:25-27; 2 Corinthians 11:2; Revelation 19:7, 8; 22:17) With reference to each of these the glorified Jesus said: “I will write upon him the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem which descends out of heaven from my God, and that new name of mine.” (Revelation 3:12) Members of the “bride” are spiritual Israelites, in the new covenant, and they number 144,000. Jesus Christ builds them upon himself as the “rock-mass,” and his twelve apostles rest like complementary foundation stones upon him.—Matthew 16:18; Revelation 7:4-8; 14:1-5; 21:14.
8. Why will Christ’s 144,000 joint heirs be a body of rulers that is brand new?
8 The 144,000 joint heirs with the heavenly Bridegroom Jesus Christ will include no worldly politicians, not even political and ecclesiastical kings that have reigned in Christendom. They are a distinct heavenly body of rulers, something brand new. Being no longer of human nature, they have the “divine nature.” They are a “new creation.” (2 Peter 1:4; 2 Corinthians 5:17) They have met the requirements for a disciple on earth to enter into the heavenly kingdom. They were “born again,” “born from water and spirit,” “born, not from blood or from a fleshly will or from man’s will, but from God.” (John 1:12, 13; 3:3, 5) In Romans 6:5, 8 the spirit-begotten disciples of Christ read: “If we have become united with him in the likeness of his death, we shall certainly also be united with him in the likeness of his resurrection. Moreover, if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him.”
9. Christ’s resurrection was of what kind, in the likeness of which resurrection his 144,000 joint heirs are to be united with him?
9 What is “the likeness of his resurrection”? Well, how was Christ resurrected? In 1 Peter 3:18 we are told: “Christ died once for all time concerning sins, a righteous person for unrighteous ones, that he might lead you to God, he being put to death in the flesh, but being made alive in the spirit.”
10. (a) What was God’s purpose in ‘preparing’ a body of flesh for his Son Jesus on earth? (b) For Jesus to live again after being put to death in the flesh concerning sins, how would he have to be resurrected?
10 By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, God had humbled his Son, making him “a little lower than angels.” (Romans 8:3; Hebrews 2:7-9; Psalm 8:5) But God did not purpose for his only-begotten Son to remain a creature of flesh and blood forever, inferior to heavenly angels. God purposed to glorify him more highly than angels for his faithfulness to death in the flesh. So the perfect human body that God miraculously “prepared” for Jesus on earth was the body that Jesus offered to God once for all time in sacrifice. It was given for mankind to feed upon like bread; just as Jesus said: “The bread that I shall give is my flesh in behalf of the life of the world.” (Hebrews 10:1-10; John 6:51) So, after his being “put to death in the flesh,” Jesus, if he were to be raised to life again, had to be “made alive in the spirit,” as a heavenly spirit Son of God.
11. For Christ’s spirit-begotten disciples to be in the likeness of his resurrection, in what must they be “made alive,” and how does this harmonize with 1 Corinthians 15:42-54?
11 Like Jesus Christ, his spirit-begotten disciples must be “faithful even to death” in the flesh. (Revelation 2:10) For them to be united with him “in the likeness of his resurrection,” they also, like him, have to be “made alive in the spirit,” as spirit creatures. In 1 Corinthians 15:42-54, we read of their kind of resurrection:
“It is sown in corruption, it is raised up in incorruption. It is sown in dishonor, it is raised up in glory. It is sown in weakness, it is raised up in power. It is sown a physical body, it is raised up a spiritual body. If there is a physical body, there is also a spiritual one. It is even so written: ‘The first man Adam became a living soul.’ The last Adam became a life-giving spirit. Nevertheless, the first is, not that which is spiritual, but that which is physical, afterward that which is spiritual. The first man is out of the earth and made of dust; the second man is out of heaven. As the one made of dust is, so those made of dust are also; and as the heavenly one is, so those who are heavenly are also. And just as we have borne the image of the one made of dust, we shall bear also the image of the heavenly one.
“However, this I say, brothers, that flesh and blood cannot inherit God’s kingdom, neither does corruption inherit incorruption. Look! I tell you a sacred secret: We shall not all fall asleep in death, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, during the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised up incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this which is corruptible must put on incorruption, and this which is mortal must put on immortality. But when this which is corruptible puts on incorruption and this which is mortal puts on immortality, then the saying will take place that is written: ‘Death is swallowed up forever.’”
A NEW RESURRECTION
12. (a) Since the resurrection of the 144,000 is in the likeness of Christ’s resurrection, this argues for Christ’s having what kind of resurrection? (b) Why is this a new resurrection, and what makes it the “first resurrection”?
12 Such a resurrection to incorruption and immortality in a “spiritual body” is what Romans 6:5 calls “the likeness of his resurrection.” This means that Jesus Christ himself had such a resurrection, not to life in a physical body that is corruptible and mortal and lower than angels, but in a spiritual body and as “a life-giving spirit.” (1 Corinthians 15:45) Now we can understand why, after his resurrection, Jesus had to materialize human bodies with the material clothing in order to make himself visible to his disciples during the forty days up till his ascension back to heaven. This is indeed a new resurrection, one invisible to human eyes. It has preceded the coming resurrection of mankind in general. It is also of first-class importance. So it is called “the first resurrection.” It is what the apostle Paul calls “the earlier resurrection.” Christ’s 144,000 joint heirs share in it. (Philippians 3:11) These are the ones spoken of in Revelation 20:4-6:
“They came to life and ruled as kings with the Christ for a thousand years. . . . This is the first resurrection. Happy and holy is anyone having part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no authority, but they will be priests of God and of the Christ, and will rule as kings with him for the thousand years.”
13. What kind of governmental organization will that first resurrection provide for mankind’s good, and how is it spoken of in 2 Peter 3:13?
13 Thus the members of “the bride, the Lamb’s wife,” experience the same kind of resurrection as the Bridegroom, Jesus Christ, had. Does it dawn upon our appreciation just what such a resurrection will produce? It provides a body of incorruptible, immortal rulers for the good of all mankind. None of man’s earthly rulers has had immortality. (1 Timothy 6:15, 16) Jesus Christ and his 144,000 fellow kings and priests will outrank any earthly government that mankind has had during its six thousand years of existence. It will be the very best and highest kind of government that God could give to mankind. It will displace all the human governments that have been manipulated by Satan the Devil and his demons. God will use it to usher in upon the earth his new order, for it will be a new governmental “heavens.”—2 Peter 3:13.
14. (a) What must happen to the present old “heavens” over mankind? (b) In what way will the new government be a “heavens” in a real way?
14 The man-made governmental “heavens” must go, along with their invisible backer, Satan the Devil, “the ruler of this world.” (John 12:31) They are nearing their destruction in the “great tribulation” that will reach its maximum destructive fury at Har–Magedon, when the “war of the great day of God the Almighty” results in crowning victory for Jehovah, the Sovereign of heaven and earth. (Revelation 16:14-16; 19:11-21; Daniel 2:44) The new governmental “heavens” must come into undisputed power and control. They must be heavenly, not merely in a figurative way, but in a real way, by being made up of spirit rulers having the “divine nature” and being immortal, incorruptible. (2 Peter 1:4) Blessed will our eyes be when we see in reality what the apostle John saw in vision. His description thereof is captivating:
“And I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the former heaven and the former earth had passed away, and the sea is no more. I saw also the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God and prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. With that I heard a loud voice from the throne say: ‘Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. And God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.’”—Revelation 21:1-4.
THE SPIRIT BACKS UP THE KING OF DAVID’S LINE
15, 16. (a) Who was the natural source of David and his line of kings over Israel? (b) How did that natural source become like a tree stump and its root system, and in whom did that natural source reach its objective descendant?
15 Later in the vision to John, the heavenly Bridegroom Jesus Christ said: “I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright morning star.” (Revelation 22:16) King David’s father was Jesse of Bethlehem and of the tribe of Judah. So Jesus was a descendant of Jesse through David. Also, Jesse was the natural source of King David and of David’s line of kings over Israel.
16 The Davidic kingdom was like a tree with its base and roots in David’s father Jesse. In the year 607 B.C.E., at the destruction of Jerusalem and the removal of her king to Babylon, that kingdom tree was cut down. The Davidic kingdom was never restored to Jerusalem. What remained was like a tree stump with its root system. This pictured David’s father Jesse. Jesse was left without a descendant actively ruling as king over Israel. But there was still vitality in that tree stump and its roots, for Jesse’s line of descent through King David still continued on. It reached its objective member in Messiah Jesus.
17. (a) How did Jesus Christ revitalize the kingdom that had its source in Jesse? (b) When was that kingdom put in power, and what force activates the King who is the offspring of Jesse through David?
17 By being born through the virgin Jewess Mary at Bethlehem, Jesus became like a “twig” out of the stump of Jesse and like a “sprout” out of Jesse’s roots. As such he could revitalize the kingdom that was based on Jesse, the father of kings over Israel. When Jehovah God anointed Jesus with holy spirit, this symbolic “twig” or “sprout” became the King-Designate for the Davidic kingdom. At the end of the Gentile Times in 1914, God enthroned him as King in heaven. Concerning his activity Isaiah 11:1-5 says:
“And there must go forth a twig out of the stump of Jesse; and out of his roots a sprout will be fruitful. And upon him the spirit of Jehovah must settle down, the spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the spirit of counsel and of mightiness, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of Jehovah; and there will be enjoyment by him in the fear of Jehovah.
“And he will not judge by any mere appearance to his eyes, nor reprove simply according to the thing heard by his ears. And with righteousness he must judge the lowly ones, and with uprightness he must give reproof in behalf of the meek ones of the earth. And he must strike the earth with the rod of his mouth; and with the spirit of his lips he will put the wicked one to death. And righteousness must prove to be the belt of his hips, and faithfulness the belt of his loins.”
18. (a) How does the symbolic “twig” strike the earth with the rod of his mouth? (b) How does he put wicked ones to death with the spirit of his lips?
18 During the coming “great tribulation” the symbolic “twig out of the stump of Jesse” will indeed “strike the earth with the rod of his mouth.” Royal orders issuing from his mouth will become like a rod that smashes to bits the earthly social arrangement of mankind, the old order of things. His commands are forceful, urgent, stirring to action, and they are propelled from his lips with death-dealing effect upon his obstinate earthly enemies.
19. How does the King, backed by God’s spirit, deliver the meek and lowly ones from the wicked oppressor forever?
19 This speaking with the authority of an executioner against wicked enemies corresponds with the “sharp long sword” pictured as protruding out of the King’s mouth in order to “strike the nations with it, and he will shepherd [the nations] with a rod of iron.” (Revelation 19:11-15) By doing this, the Messianic king, backed by Jehovah’s spirit, delivers the meek and lowly ones on earth. When he reigns with his 144,000 fellow kings, he will not permit the wicked oppressors to come to power again on earth.
20. In Isaiah 11:10-12 the regathering of whom is foretold, and into what are they regathered and into what conditions?
20 Since his enthronement in the heavens at the end of the Gentile Times in 1914, the symbolic “sprout” out of the roots of Jesse has served for the fulfilling of a further part of Isaiah’s prophecy, chapter eleven. He has brought about the regathering of the remnant of his anointed joint heirs from all parts of the earth to which they had been scattered by persecutions during and after World War I. He has brought them into a spiritual paradise, where they enjoy peace and harmony with God and produce abundant “fruitage of the spirit.” (Galatians 5:22, 23) The beastliness of the world is kept out! (Isaiah 11:6-9) Isaiah looked ahead to the regathering and restoration of spiritual Israel, and said:
“And it must occur in that day that there will be the root of Jesse that will be standing up as a signal for the peoples. To him even the nations will turn inquiringly, and his resting-place must become glorious.
“And it must occur in that day that Jehovah will again offer his hand, a second time, to acquire the remnant of his people who will remain over from Assyria and from Egypt and from Pathros and from Cush and from Elam and from Shinar and from Hamath and from the islands of the sea. And he will certainly raise up a signal for the nations and gather the dispersed ones of Israel; and the scattered ones of Judah he will collect together from the four extremities of the earth.”—Isaiah 11:10-12.
21. The symbolic “sprout” out of the roots of Jesse is here spoken of as being what, and how has he been made to serve as a “signal” to the nations?
21 Here the symbolic “sprout” out of the roots of Jesse is spoken of as being the “root” itself of Jesse. At the close of the Gentile Times in 1914 this Messianic king was raised up in royal power. Being advertised world wide, he has served as a “signal” to which all the scattered remnant of spiritual Israelites must assemble, inasmuch as he is the reigning King. These regathered and restored ones have since carried out their anointing to make prominent to all mankind the Messianic king and his kingdom.
22. To whom have individuals of the nations now turned inquiringly, and who have answered their inquiries, with what result?
22 Hundreds of thousands of individuals from among all nations have now turned inquiringly to the signal-like Messianic king. They have satisfied themselves that the glorified Jesus Christ is really Jehovah’s promised Messiah. The anointed remnant, with the answers to their inquiries, have helped them to do this. Jubilantly they have gathered to the side of Jehovah’s Messianic kingdom, hailing it as the only hope for all mankind. Already they form a “great crowd,” the final number of which by the time of the “great tribulation” we do not know.—Revelation 7:9-17.
“A NEW EARTH”
23. How securely will Jehovah put the new heavens and new earth in place, and what kind of action may it require for him to bring his people into the New Order?
23 The wicked old order, which has entrenched itself so deeply in the earth, must go—into destruction! Jehovah is now getting all things ready for the glorious new order! He has ‘planted’ the new governmental “heavens,” embedding them so fixedly in his universal organization that they cannot be pulled up by men or demons. The “new earth” that he inaugurates he will put upon such a firm foundation that nothing can make it wobble or totter to its ruin. Into this new order he will bring the remnant of spiritual Israel and the “great crowd” even if he has to do as at the Red Sea back in Moses’ day, stirring up the waters and making them boisterous so as to cut a corridor for his liberated people to get through. Here is what he says in Isaiah 51:15, 16:
“I, Jehovah, am your God, the One stirring up the sea that its waves may be boisterous. Jehovah of armies is his name. And I shall put my words in your mouth, and with the shadow of my hand I shall certainly cover you, in order to plant the heavens and lay the foundation of the earth and say to Zion, ‘You are my people.’”
24. In whose mouth has Jehovah put his word, and why has he covered these with the shadow of his hand?
24 No obstacle put in His way by the enemies will prove to be insurmountable for Jehovah. Just as at Mount Sinai He put his word in the mouth of his chosen people through the mediator Moses and thereafter he led them under the protective shadow of his hand into the Promised Land, so he has done for the remnant of spiritual Israel. He has put his word, his message of the hour, into the mouth of the spiritual remnant for them to confess openly before all the world, for their own salvation and for that of responsive hearers. A “great crowd” of “other sheep” have acted favorably upon what they have heard and have taken God’s word into their mouth. Because all of these have become his Christian witnesses, Jehovah covers them with the shadow of his hand for their protection in this world.
25. (a) Of what will Jehovah make the protected remnant a part, and what acknowledgment will He make to them? (b) What will God make the protected “great crowd” to be, and whose people will they be said to be?
25 Jehovah has an objective in this line of action. His objective is to make the faithful remnant eventually a part of the new governmental “heavens” as joint heirs with the King Jesus Christ. As for the “great crowd” of “other sheep,” Jehovah will make them the initial part of the “new earth,” the new earthly society in the New Order. By preserving the faithful remnant of spiritual Israel through the coming “great tribulation” he will be saying to these spiritual Israelites who are ‘approaching the heavenly Mount Zion and heavenly Jerusalem,’ “You are my people.” (Hebrews 12:22; Isaiah 51:16) Also, the protective “tent of God” will begin to be with the surviving “great crowd,” and, as Revelation 21:3 says, “they will be his peoples.”
26. What spirit will be absent from the New Order, and with what do the prospective entrants into it get filled now?
26 Holy spirit will operate and prevail in the globe-encircling new order. Jehovah will have cleansed away the polluting “spirit that now operates in the sons of disobedience.” Such “sons of disobedience” will have perished in the “great tribulation” and Satan the Devil and his demons will have been abyssed. (Ephesians 2:2; Revelation 20:1-3) In preparation for the New Order, the prospective survivors of the coming “great tribulation” keep on “getting filled with spirit” from God.—Ephesians 5:18.
27. In the New Order what will take place that even advanced medical science of today cannot match?
27 We can only try to imagine how it will be here on earth after the “war of the great day of God the Almighty” at Har–Magedon and after the imprisoning of Satan and his demons in the “abyss.” Then holy spirit will have free reign earth wide. We are reminded of how amazingly holy spirit operated in the days of Jesus Christ and his apostles on earth nineteen centuries ago. Astonishing miracles took place, to the unspeakable joy of the people who benefited therefrom. Advanced medical science of today has nothing with which to match the instantaneous cures and healings that then took place by holy spirit. There were even resurrections of persons from the dead! Better than that, there was also spiritual healing by means of the proclaiming and teaching of the good news of Jehovah’s Messianic kingdom. There was a liberating of those held in bondage to false, traditional, death-dealing religion.
NEW ORDER PROSPECTS!
28. What part on earth will the surviving remnant have in the activities of the New Order, and until the time for what event?
28 Marvelous indeed were those miracles that took place during the days when the Christian congregation was being founded. But they were merely foregleams of what is to be accomplished by holy spirit in Jehovah’s new order. We may expect the surviving remnant to participate in the thrilling activities at the start of the New Order. But for how long, we do not now know from the Holy Scriptures. They have a “marriage” to look forward to—the heavenly marriage of the Lamb to his complete bridal congregation. At the time that this is to be realized, they will pass off the earthly scene and be rewarded with a happy part in the “first resurrection.” So they must prove faithful to the death.
29. Will the “great crowd” see the resurrection of the Bride class, or the resurrection of whom?
29 The resurrection of the Bride class will be invisible to the eyes of the “great crowd” of tribulation survivors, who hope to reside forever in the paradise restored to the earth. But there will be resurrections on earth that will be visible to the “great crowd” at the “hour” for God by Christ to raise the human dead.
30. In the case of the ransomed human dead, upon what does it depend as to whether their resurrection will lead to everlasting life or to a judgment of condemnation?
30 Jesus Christ himself awaits that hour. He foretold it when he was discussing the day of world judgment and said: “The hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out, those who did good things to a resurrection of life, those who practiced vile things to a resurrection of judgment.” (John 5:27-29) In the case of all those resurrected by virtue of the ransom sacrifice of Jesus Christ, it all depends upon their future course under Christ’s kingdom as to whether resurrection leads eventually to everlasting life on a paradise earth or leads finally to a judgment by which they are condemned to everlasting destruction. Those who then yield to the prevailing holy spirit and let it become the directive force in their lives will gain eternal life in Paradise. Those who resist the holy spirit then so evidently in operation will suffer the penalty for sinning against the holy spirit, namely, eternal death.
31. What promise made on the day of his death does the King Jesus Christ still feel obligated to carry out, and when will the “hour” for this strike?
31 The heavenly King, Jesus Christ, still feels under obligation to carry out the promise that he made to the sympathetic evildoer who died alongside him at Calvary, on that dark day of Nisan 14, 33 C.E. Of course, that impaled evildoer is now dead and remembers nothing. (Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10) But the glorified Jesus Christ remembers his words to the sympathizer: “Truly I tell you today, You will be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:39-43) In view of this reference to Paradise, the “hour” for Jesus to let the evildoer in the memorial tomb hear his voice will not strike until the restoration of Paradise to earth is well along and the resurrected evildoer can notice the change in the earthly scene. By conforming his life to the holy spirit that comes from God through Jesus Christ, the evildoer can make his resurrection the kind that eventuates in eternal life in the earth-wide Paradise.
32. Among those received back from the dead to earthly life there will be what “cloud” mentioned in Scripture?
32 We then on earth will receive back from the dead not only our redeemed relatives and friends but also the faithful men and women of ancient times who were witnesses of Jehovah and who were moved by holy spirit. These will include the “so great a cloud of witnesses,” running from John the Baptizer all the way back to the first martyr for Jehovah, namely, Abel. (Hebrews 11:2 through 12:1) These will likely have an influential part in the New Order.
33. What official position will men from that “cloud” be given along with others, and for what communication may they serve as intermediaries?
33 From among these the King Jesus Christ will take those men whom he will “appoint as princes in all the earth.” (Psalm 45:16) There will already be “princes” on earth before them. Who? Those men from among the “great crowd” of “tribulation” survivors who will have been appointed as such at the start of the New Order. (Revelation 7:9-17; Isaiah 32:1, 2) But all the “princes” will be the visible earthly representatives of the “new heavens,” the new heavenly government of Jesus Christ and the 144,000 joint heirs with Jesus Christ. Doubtless these “princes” will serve as intermediaries for communication between the invisible Kingdom and the visible terrestrial society of redeemed mankind, the “new earth.”a
34. In the New Order how will Jesus Christ carry out his input role of “Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace”?
34 The New Order will be one of undisturbed peace to the four corners of the earth. It will be under the royal rule of the one whose heavenly Father appointed him to bear the inputs “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace,” and “to the abundance of the princely rule and to peace there will be no end.” (Isaiah 9:6, 7) He will become an Eternal Father, for his “princely rule” will be a paternal one, giving life to all his obedient subjects as his children. He will be a Mighty God, for he will be a Godlike Judge; but he will not be worshiped as such by his earthly beneficiaries.—Psalm 82:1-6; John 1:1; 10:33-36.
35. Who only will then be worshiped as God?
35 Jehovah alone will then be worshiped, for it is written of the New Order: “Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. And God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes.” (Revelation 21:3, 4) Satan the Devil, “the god of this system of things,” will not be the god of the New Order. (2 Corinthians 4:4) Devil worship, demon worship, will be abolished. Jehovah will be worshiped as God.
36. What fruitage will enrich the New Order, but who will put in an appearance at the end of the thousand years of Christ’s reign?
36 Holy spirit will permeate the entire New Order. (Psalm 139:7-10) Earth’s Paradise will be enriched by the “fruitage” of that spirit, such as love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness and self-control. (Galatians 5:22, 23) Such a spiritually fruitful condition will flourish to the end of Christ’s thousand-year reign. But then what? Up come Satan and his demons out of the abyss, these being released “for a little while.” By deception they will try to have all the earth again dominated by the “spirit that now operates in the sons of disobedience.” To what extent will they succeed against the prevailing holy spirit of God?—Revelation 20:3.
37. (a) In the New Order what inroads do Satan and his demons make upon the prevailing holy spirit? (b) How is Jehovah forever vindicated?
37 Only to the extent of inducing a number of restored mankind to commit the unforgivable sin against the holy spirit. Thus they cut themselves off from the heavenly Source of the spirit of life, Jehovah God. This spells everlasting death for them, “the second death.” But what about the vast majority of mankind in their lovely Paradise home? Ah, the holy spirit will gloriously triumph in their case. In an everlasting love of holy spirit, they will resist Satan’s tempting deceptions. Unwaveringly they will stay loyal to the rightful Sovereign of all the universe, their God Jehovah. Their faithfully passing this final test works for Jehovah’s eternal vindication. It brings to a final decisive settlement the hotly contested controversy of the ages, over the unselfish integrity of Jehovah’s creatures toward him as the Universal Sovereign. Satan’s false accusation is overwhelmingly disproved, and Jehovah is proved true first, last and all the time. (Romans 3:4) Satan’s “little while” of release is now up. So, then, let him and all his “seed” be crushed into nonexistence in fulfillment of Jehovah’s Edenic promise. (Genesis 3:15; Revelation 20:7-15) Hallelujah!
38. How will the future of those men and women who then remain filled with holy spirit be eternally happy?
38 Shall we ourselves be there to witness the eternal destruction of all wickedness from heaven and earth and then live on with a future ahead of us? Happy will that endless future be for all those men and women who will have remained filled with holy spirit in unbreakable devotion to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! Judged by Him as worthy of the gift of eternal life, they will enjoy perpetual youth in human perfection amid a Paradise of unfading beauty and never-failing provisions for joyous living. Always they will want to live in harmony with the holy spirit that has ever been behind such a God-honoring new order. Oh, may we prove worthy of that new order! In harmony with that heartfelt desire, may our constant prayer be that of the psalmist David as addressed to God in the midst of a hostile world:
“Deliver me from my enemies, O Jehovah. I have taken cover even with you. Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. Your spirit is good; may it lead me in the land of uprightness.”—Psalm 143:9, 10.
39. What do we say, in closing, to those even now desiring to live in harmony with God’s spirit?
39 Sincerely, then, to all persons desiring even now to live in accord with God’s sanctifying active force we say, in closing: “The undeserved kindness of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the sharing in the holy spirit be with all of you.”—2 Corinthians 13:14.
[Footnotes]
a Compare Ezekiel 44:3; 45:7-22; 46:2-18; 48:21, 22. |
Jehovah’s Witnesses (jt)
2000 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/brochures-and-booklets/jehovahs-witnesses-jt | Practical Value of the Good News to Your Community
IN TODAY’S world we often hear the opinion expressed: “The principles of Christianity are not practical. They just will not work in today’s complex society.” However, famous men like the Indian leader Mohandas K. Gandhi and Leo Tolstoy have spoken highly of the value of such principles as those presented by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. Why were these men so impressed by the moral teachings found in the Bible?
That sermon speaks of seeking spirituality and being mild-tempered, peaceable, merciful, a lover of righteousness. It condemns not only murder but being wrathful with others, not just adultery but lustful thoughts as well. It speaks against irresponsible divorce actions that break up homes and victimize children. It tells us: ‘Love even those who dislike you, give to the needy, stop judging others unmercifully, treat others as you would like to be treated.’ All this advice, if applied, would yield tremendous benefits. The more people in your community who practice them, the better your community becomes!
Jehovah’s Witnesses are an influence in this direction. The Bible teaches them to respect marriage. Their children are trained in right principles. The importance of the family is stressed. United families are a boon to your community, even to your nation. History is filled with examples of world powers crumbling when family ties weakened and immorality increased. The more individuals and families that Jehovah’s Witnesses influence to live by Christian principles, the less delinquency, immorality, and crime you will have in your community.
One of the big problems plaguing communities and nations is racial prejudice. In contrast, the apostle Peter said: “I perceive that God is not partial, but in every nation the man that fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him.” And Paul wrote: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor freeman, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one person in union with Christ Jesus.” (Acts 10:34, 35; Galatians 3:28) Jehovah’s Witnesses accept this. All races and colors live and work together at their world headquarters, at the branches, and in the congregations.
In Africa certain tribes cannot mix together without clashes. However, in assemblies of Jehovah’s Witnesses there, people from many different tribes eat, sleep, and worship together in complete harmony and warm fellowship. Government officials are amazed when they see this. An example of the unifying effect of true Christianity was commented on by the New York Amsterdam News of August 2, 1958. The comment was inspired by observing the international assembly previously mentioned where over a quarter of a million Witnesses assembled in New York City.
“Everywhere Negroes, whites and Orientals, from all stations in life and all parts of the world, mingled joyously and freely. . . The worshiping Witnesses from 120 lands have lived and worshiped together peacefully, showing Americans how easily it can be done. . . . The assembly is a shining example of how people can work and live together.”
Many may say that the principles of Christianity are not practical for this modern world. However, what else has worked or will work? Christian principles can be of real value if applied to your community now, and they will be the basis for uniting all ‘nations, tribes, and peoples’ earth wide under the rule of God’s Kingdom over mankind.—Revelation 7:9, 10.
[Blurb on page 23]
All races and colors work together
[Blurb on page 24]
Christianity is practical. What else has worked? |
“Jehovah’s Witnesses From the USSR—Brighter Days Ahead” | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101991007 | “Jehovah’s Witnesses From the USSR—Brighter Days Ahead”
THAT was the headline in the English-language newspaper The Warsaw Voice of August 19, 1990, published in Poland. The writer, Anna Dubrawska, commented on the “Pure Language” Convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Warsaw in August 1990. She interviewed Witnesses from the Soviet Union, some of whom had spent 15 years in prisons and labor camps because of their religious beliefs. But now they were emphasizing the positive changes taking place in their country.
Grigor Goryachek, a construction worker from the Crimea who was raised a Witness, was exiled for 15 years in Siberia. He said: “We are now expecting better times to come along.” Another Witness, Anton Pohanich, said: “Better times are already here. I can now take our message freely from house to house, whereas in the past this was not possible.”
Dubrawska quotes Igor Cherny, a 17-year-old Witness from the Caucasus: “For 70 years people, especially the young, were so intensively drawn away from God that now they want to return to Him just as intensively, or at least hear about Him as a start.”
The Polish publication Dziennik Wieczorny (Evening Paper) reported, under the input Radość braci (Joy of the Brothers), that an employee of Zawisza stadium in the city of Bydgoszcz said: “I am delighted by the clean language used and good manners shown by the youths.”
Writing in the Polish daily Trybuna under the heading Głosiciele Królestwa (Kingdom Publishers), Zofia Uszynska stated concerning the convention: “In a period of 30 minutes I was offered snacks and coffee ten times. Five times someone wanted to give up his seat for me. For four consecutive days more than 30,000 people at Dziesieciolecia Stadium in Warsaw participated in a [religious] festival. Women in a state of advanced pregnancy, families with small children, grown-ups and youths. The youngest baptized was 11 years old, the oldest almost 80.”
The article continued: “Several thousand Russians [actually more than 16,000] came to this year’s meeting. Last year there were 6,000 of them. Russian border officials let all the buses through without the need to wait for checking in lines many kilometers long. Delegates from all over the Soviet Union came: from Vladivostok, Khabarovsk, Vorkuta. Some spent four or five days on a train.”
The same paper quotes Ivan M. Grevniak as saying: “I saw injustice in what the popes and priests did, and I searched for honesty.” The account continues: “He noticed agreement between the words and deeds in the behavior of Jehovah’s Witnesses.” Then Ivan added: “I thank God that he allowed me to learn the truth.”
The Trybuna reports that Ivan is an elder in a congregation in Lvov, where “there are 13 congregations and more than 2,000 religious believers. . . . ‘In all religious groups everywhere there reigns a spirit of nationalism. However, it is absent among my coreligionists,’ says Grevniak.”
This unity was shown at the Warsaw convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses where the program was presented simultaneously in Polish and Russian in different parts of the stadium. There was absolutely no nationalistic friction.
Zofia Uszynska was also impressed by the organization needed to house, feed, and even medically care for the more than 35,000 who attended the convention. She concluded: “I have never participated in such a fine, friendly public gathering.”
The Polish daily Sztandar Młodych (Standard of Youth) commented on the work done to make the stadium fit to receive so many visitors: “As a social service . . . Jehovah’s followers rebuilt the benches, remodeled tunnels and toilets, cleaned the grass field. They contributed to the cost of the convention from their own pockets. Jehovah’s Witnesses prepared about 22,000 private accommodations for the visitors, cared for boarding for Soviet citizens, and had their own medical care.”
Certainly Jehovah’s Witnesses are already experiencing “brighter days” in Eastern Europe and pray that their newfound legal standing in countries such as Romania, Hungary, and Poland will soon extend to Czechoslovakia, Albania, Bulgaria, and the Soviet Union.—2 Thessalonians 3:1; 1 Timothy 2:1, 2.
[Pictures on page 23]
Soviet Witnesses at Warsaw “Pure Language” Convention, including baptismal candidates (upper and inset), Russian speaker, program, and Soviet delegates in front of their buses |
How Would You Answer? | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102009014 | How Would You Answer?
What Is Wrong With This Picture?
Read Matthew 25:1-12. Now look at the picture. What features are incorrect? Write your answers on the lines below.
1. ․․․․․
2. ․․․․․
3. ․․․․․
4. ․․․․․
FOR DISCUSSION:
Why did five of the virgins not share their oil?
CLUE: Read Matthew 25:8, 9.
When is it good to share what we have with others? When would it be best not to share something we have?
From This Issue
Answer these questions, and provide the missing Bible verse(s).
PAGE 6 Who owns the earth and that which fills it? Psalm 24:․․․
PAGE 9 What can anyone thirsting receive? Revelation 22:․․․
PAGE 18 A man of discernment is what? Proverbs 17:․․․
PAGE 29 A man’s own folly can do what? Proverbs 19:․․․
Children’s Picture Search
Can you find these pictures in this issue? In your own words, describe what is happening in each picture.
What Do You Know About the Prophets?
5. ․․․․․
Who was the prophet that ran away from King Jehoiakim?
CLUE: Read Jeremiah 26:17-23.
6. ․․․․․
When Hezekiah was king, who prophesied that Jerusalem would become “heaps of ruins”?
CLUE: Read Jeremiah 26:18.
FOR DISCUSSION:
Why, after reading about these two prophets, should you not be afraid to talk about God?
CLUE: Read Proverbs 29:25.
◼ Answers on page 21
ANSWERS TO PAGE 31
1. The account does not mention a bride.
2. Five virgins entered the feast.
3. Five virgins had lamps and receptacles, while the other five had only lamps.
4. There would have been a door for the bridegroom to shut.
5. Urijah.—Jeremiah 26:20.
6. Micah. |
Ministry School (be)
2002 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/be | Take Delight in God’s Word
HAPPY is the man whose “delight is in the law of Jehovah.” Such a man reads God’s Word “in an undertone day and night.” (Ps. 1:1, 2) Do you experience that delight? How can you increase the joy that God’s Word brings you?
Listen as Jehovah Speaks
Do not simply read words. Visualize the situations about which you read. Imagine the voices of those who are quoted. As you read the opening chapters of the Bible, hear Jehovah himself reveal, step by step, what is done in making the earth fit for man. Listen as he tells his Son, the Master Worker, that the time has come to bring the first humans into existence. Picture the scene: Adam and Eve rebel, God passes judgment on them and, subsequently, he ousts them from Paradise. (Genesis, chaps. 1-3) Feel a sense of awe when you read that a voice from heaven identifies Jesus Christ as the Son of God, the beloved, the one sent by God to lay down his life for mankind. (Matt. 3:16, 17) Try to imagine the apostle John’s reaction when he hears Jehovah declare: “Look! I am making all things new.” (Rev. 21:5) Truly, reading God’s Word in this way is a delightful experience!
Continue reading the inspired record, and you will come to know Jehovah as a majestic and awe-inspiring person. You will feel strongly drawn to this One who loves us, deals mercifully with us, helps us if we humbly keep trying to do his will, and shows us how to enjoy success in all that we do.—Josh. 1:8; Ps. 8:1; Isa. 41:10.
The more time you spend reading the Bible, the greater will be your satisfaction as you grow in knowledge of God’s will for you. But the delight will go far beyond that. When your reading provides you the help you need to deal wisely with problems, you will feel like the psalmist who said: “Your reminders are wonderful. That is why my soul has observed them.” (Ps. 119:129) You too will rejoice as you discern from the Scriptures principles that help to mold your thinking and your desires in a godly way.—Isa. 55:8, 9.
The Bible provides moral guidance that shields us from harm and shows us the right way. As we read it, we sense that Jehovah is a Father who knows what problems will result when we give in to imperfect fleshly desires. He does not want us to suffer the terrible consequences that will inevitably come from flouting his high moral standards. He cares about us and wants us to enjoy the best way of life. Our reading of his Word helps us to appreciate more fully what a blessing it is to have him as our God and heavenly Father.
Read the Bible Daily
The psalmist said of the man who reads God’s Word daily: “Everything he does will succeed.” (Ps. 1:3) Yes, despite our imperfections, despite our living in Satan’s wicked system of things, and despite the Devil’s efforts to devour us, regular reading and application of what is in God’s Word will enable us to succeed in everything that involves our relationship with Jehovah.
Since we are under pressure from this old system, absorbing the Creator’s thoughts for even a few precious moments each day can impart strength to us. Some who were imprisoned for their faith had access only to scattered verses that they found quoted in newspaper articles. They clipped these, memorized them, and meditated upon them. Jehovah blessed their efforts because they did what their circumstances allowed in taking in knowledge from God’s Word. (Matt. 5:3) Yet, most of us have far more freedom than that. We should not conclude that quickly reading a Bible verse once a day will, in itself, have some miraculous effect. Blessings will be ours, however, if we adjust our priorities so as to read a portion of the Bible each day, think about it, and put it to work in our lives.
Realistically, our best plans can be disrupted. When that happens, we give priority to the things that really matter. For example, we would not on purpose go without drinking water for a day or two. Regardless of what comes up in our daily lives, then, we should take some time to refresh ourselves with the waters of truth.—Acts 17:11.
Read All of God’s Word
Have you personally read the entire Bible? Some have felt overwhelmed by the prospect of reading from Genesis to Revelation. Hence, many who wanted to read the entire Bible started by first reading the Christian Greek Scriptures. Why? Perhaps it was because they could more readily see how those Bible books applied to them as individuals seeking to walk in the footsteps of Christ. Or perhaps it was because the Christian Greek Scriptures did not seem like so much to read—only a little over one fourth of the Bible. But after they completed reading those 27 books, they turned their attention to the 39 books of the Hebrew Scriptures and began reading and enjoying them. By the time they finished the Hebrew Scriptures, they had established a pattern of regular Bible reading, so they continued, reading the Christian Greek Scriptures for a second time, and they have never stopped. May you likewise make daily reading of God’s Word your lifelong habit.
Is there someone in your family or congregation who cannot read? Why not offer to read the Bible regularly to that person? You will benefit, and he too will benefit as he meditates on what he hears and then applies it in his life.—Rev. 1:3.
In time, you may want to undertake special projects in connection with your Bible reading. Some of these can enhance your appreciation for the relationship between the various parts of the Bible. If your Bible has marginal references, these may direct you to historical details and parallel accounts. They may help you to discern the circumstances that led to the writing of various psalms as well as letters penned by apostles of Jesus Christ. Insight on the Scriptures provides a wealth of background information on people, places, and qualities mentioned in the Bible. Charts draw attention to the fulfillment of Bible prophecies, show which kings and prophets were contemporaries, and give approximate dates for many Bible events.
As you meditate on what you learn, you will understand the reasons why certain conditions developed among God’s people. You will also find out why Jehovah dealt with his people as he did. You will see how Jehovah evaluates the actions of governments, peoples, and individuals. This will give you greater insight into his thinking.
Bible history will become more interesting to you when you visualize the region in which events occurred. Maps of Bible lands reveal the terrain as well as the distances between places. For example, approximately where did the Israelites cross the Red Sea? What was the size of the Promised Land? How far did Jesus walk as he carried out his earthly ministry? What sights did Paul see on his missionary journeys? Maps and geographic descriptions convey details that will bring your reading to life. Where can you find maps of the Bible lands? Some appear in the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures. The Insight volumes contain some 70 maps, and there is a map index at the end of the first volume. Use the Watch Tower Publications Index to locate other maps. If these resources are not available, use maps published in The Watchtower to assist you in your Bible reading.
In the Hebrew Scriptures, King David extolled Jehovah, saying: “How precious your thoughts are! O God, how much does the grand sum of them amount to!” (Ps. 139:17) In the Christian Greek Scriptures, the apostle Paul praised Jehovah because He “has shone on our hearts to illuminate them with the glorious knowledge of God by the face of Christ.” (2 Cor. 4:6) David and Paul lived centuries apart; yet, they both delighted in God’s Word. So can you if you take the time to read all that Jehovah has given you in the pages of his inspired Word.
MAKE A SUCCESS OF DAILY BIBLE READING
A major part of the education offered in the Theocratic Ministry School centers on the program of Bible reading. We urge you to share in it.
A modest portion of the Bible is scheduled for personal reading and for discussion in the school each week. This will progressively take you through the entire Bible.
In order to make daily Bible reading a part of your life, set aside a regular time for it—perhaps early in the morning, at noontime, at suppertime, or before you go to bed. Just reading snatches of it during the day when you happen to have time will not ensure regularity.
If you are a family head, show personal interest by helping family members to develop a good routine. Doing some Bible reading as a family may encourage family members to pursue daily Bible reading on a personal basis.
Daily Bible reading requires self-discipline. You are not born with a desire for it. You need to “form a longing” for God’s Word. (1 Pet. 2:2) As you cultivate the habit, your spiritual appetite will grow. Then you may find that you want to broaden out by undertaking special projects of Bible reading and study to deepen your understanding and appreciation for the spiritual riches that Jehovah has made available to us.
When you do your Bible reading, take time to ponder the meaning of what you read—what it tells you about Jehovah, how it can influence your life beneficially, and how you can use it to help others. |
‘Know Jehovah’ (kj)
1971 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/kj | Chapter 15
The Watchman Lives to Get the Report
1. Because of his great interest in our welfare, what has the Creator provided for us in these troublous times, and how should we feel about this?
OUGHT we not be thankful that there is a Creator who is so interested in our welfare that he has provided a watchman for our safety in these dangerous times? We have reason to be grateful for this divine provision, rather than be irritated because the watchman warns us so promptly and conscientiously. He is not needlessly disturbing our peace and repose.
2. What worldlings of today do not prove to be His watchman class, why does He have a great account to settle with this system of things, and what does heeding His real watchman mean for us?
2 Scientists, economists, ecologists and historians are shouting out well-founded warnings to this present system of things about eventual disaster. But these worldlings do not make up the “watchman” class that the Creator of heaven and earth has raised up. Those men or women do not issue warning in the name of the Creator or at His command. Whether we refer to man’s natural environment or we refer to moral standards and religious obligations, in all cases the Creator’s laws and arrangements are being violated. The account that He has to settle with man’s present system of things world wide is great. His settling of accounts in the near future will mean a “great tribulation” of the worst sort that has ever befallen our race. Heeding His real watchman means our salvation.
3. How was the Creator’s “watchman” foreshadowed or typed, and when?
3 The Creator’s “watchman” for our day was foreshadowed or typed. By whom? By the prophet Ezekiel, during those critical six years that wound up with the first destruction of Jerusalem in 607 B.C.E. Ezekiel was commissioned as a prophet and watchman in the year 613 B.C.E. (Ezekiel 1:1-3; 3:17-21) But now, before the report of Jerusalem’s destruction reaches him at his place of exile in Babylon, he is reminded how, as a watchman, he is responsible for the lives of the chosen people of God. After recording the messages that he was called upon to deliver against seven nations who had mistreated God’s chosen people (Ezekiel, chapters twenty-five through thirty-two), the prophet writes:
4. In Ezekiel 33:1-5, what does Jehovah say regarding the placing of a watchman and the case of the heedless hearer of the warning signal of the horn?
4 “And the word of Jehovah proceeded to occur to me, saying: ‘Son of man, speak to the sons of your people, and you must say to them, “As regards a land, in case I bring upon it a sword and the people of the land, one and all, actually take a man and set him as their watchman, and he really sees the sword coming upon the land and blows the horn and warns the people, and the hearer actually hears the sound of the horn but he takes no warning at all, and a sword comes and takes him away, his own blood will come to be upon his own head. The sound of the horn he heard, but he took no warning. His own blood will come to be upon his own self. And had he himself taken warning, his own soul would have escaped.”’”—Ezekiel 33:1-5.
5. According to those words, who is it that brings the sword upon the land, and who shoulders the responsibility for loss of life if a hearer disregards a watchman?
5 Let us here notice that it is Jehovah that brings the “sword” of execution of his judicial decisions upon the land in question. But even if the people of that land set up their own watchman, just the same the resident of the land who fails to heed the watchman’s warning and loses his soul or life must shoulder the responsibility for his own death. It is fair to the watchman.
6. What does Jehovah say is the case of a people in danger whose watchman fails to sound warning to them?
6 “Now as regards the watchman,” continues Jehovah, “in case he sees the sword coming and he actually does not blow the horn and the people itself gets no warning at all and a sword comes and takes away from them soul, for its own error it itself must be taken away, but its blood I shall ask back from the hand of the watchman himself.”—Ezekiel 33:6.
7. Although a people deserves to be destroyed, who is held accountable for their death in the case of a delinquent watchman?
7 If a people is destroyed at the edge of the executional sword, no injustice was done to it because it did not first get warning. It deserved to be destroyed because of its own error toward God. But this does not excuse the delinquent watchman. He was duty-bound to sound the warning to the people. Modern-day law would call his failure to do so “criminal negligence” on the watchman’s part. Certainly, then, Jehovah rightly held him responsible.
8. Who made Ezekiel a watchman and to whom, and how would Ezekiel be dealt with where a wicked man died for failing to get warning, or where he failed to heed Ezekiel’s warning?
8 Jehovah now makes an application of this to Ezekiel, saying: “Now as regards you, O son of man, a watchman is what I have made you to the house of Israel, and at my mouth you must hear the word and give them warning from me. When I say to someone wicked, ‘O wicked one, you will positively die!’ but you actually do not speak out to warn the wicked one from his way, he himself as a wicked one will die in his own error, but his blood I shall ask back at your own hand. But as regards you, in case you actually warn someone wicked from his way for him to turn back from it but he actually does not turn back from his way, he himself will die in his own error, whereas you yourself will certainly deliver your own soul.” (Ezekiel 33:7-9) According to this principle, Jehovah excuses a spiritual watchman, like Ezekiel, for having done his duty.
9. In what is it that Jehovah takes delight, in the death of the wicked one or in the recovery of that one to life?
9 “Now,” continues Jehovah, “as regards you, O son of man, say to the house of Israel, ‘Thus you people have said: “Because our revolts and our sins are upon us and in them we are rotting away, how, then, shall we keep living?”’ Say to them, ‘“As I am alive,” is the utterance of the Sovereign Lord Jehovah, “I take delight, not in the death of the wicked one, but in that someone wicked turns back from his way and actually keeps living. Turn back, turn back from your bad ways, for why is it that you should die, O house of Israel?”’”—Ezekiel 33:10, 11.
10. How does this attitude of Jehovah open up an opportunity for us today when the “great tribulation” is impending?
10 This divine attitude opens up an opportunity for us today. He is not pleased to have us die in the approaching “great tribulation” in which he executes His judicial decisions upon this wicked system of things. If we turn back from our bad ways and strive to live according to the way marked out in His Word, he will spare us from execution. (Matthew 24:21, 22) That a wicked person’s previous record will not be held against him, Jehovah now states:
11. How does Jehovah state matters, to show that a person’s previous record will not be held against him or, also, in favor of him?
11 “And as for you, O son of man, say to the sons of your people, ‘The righteousness of the righteous one will not itself deliver him in the day of his revolt. But as regards the wickedness of the wicked one, he will not be made to stumble [and fall in death] by it in the day of his turning back from his wickedness. Nor will even anyone having righteousness be able to keep living because of it in the day of his sinning. When I say to the righteous one: “You will positively keep living,” and he himself actually trusts in his own righteousness and does injustice, all his own righteous acts will not be remembered, but for his injustice that he has done—for this he will die.’”—Ezekiel 33:12, 13.
WHEN ONE’S PAST RECORD DOES NOT COUNT
12. In the case of the wicked one, how does Jehovah state that what one actually is at the time for executing judgment is what counts?
12 Regardless of the previous record in life, it is what one actually is at the due time for the execution of divine judgment that counts with God. Hence he goes on to say: “And when I say to the wicked one: ‘You will positively die,’ and he actually turns back from his sin and carries on justice and righteousness, and the wicked one returns the very thing pledged [by the debtor, at nightfall], pays back the very things taken by robbery, and actually walks in the very statutes of life by not doing injustice, he will positively keep living. He will not die. None of his sins with which he has sinned will be remembered against him. Justice and righteousness are what he has carried on. He will positively keep living.”—Ezekiel 33:14-16.
13. Walking “in the very statutes of life” means what, as regards Ezekiel’s day and as regards our own day?
13 Such treatment of sinners—how gracious it is on Jehovah’s part! At his time of executing judgment against an unrighteous nation or organization, He does not let the reformed sinner be put to death, but this spared one is permitted to live on, walking “in the very statutes of life,” until his natural death. In Ezekiel’s day such walking meant obeying God’s law that was given to Israel at Mount Sinai through the mediator Moses. But in our day, nineteen centuries after the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ as the “Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world,” a reformed sinner’s walking “in the very statutes of life” would mean his accepting the ransom sacrifice of the Lamb Jesus Christ and walking in his footsteps as a true Christian.—John 1:29, 36; 1 Peter 2:21.
14. To correspond with this, what is said about the “great crowd” in Revelation 7:9-15?
14 That is why it is said concerning the “great crowd” of worshipers that survives the “great tribulation” and enters into God’s righteous new system of things: “These are the ones that come out of the great tribulation, and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. That is why they are before the throne of God; and they are rendering him sacred service day and night in his temple; and the One seated on the throne [God] will spread his tent over them.”—Revelation 7:9-15.
15, 16. What were the Israelites saying about the way of Jehovah, but what did He say to make plain the rightness of His way?
15 What shall we say of this divine arrangement? That God has misadjusted matters? To say so would be doing like the Israelites of Ezekiel’s day. Here is what Jehovah tells Ezekiel about them: “And the sons of your people have said, ‘The way of Jehovah is not adjusted right,’ but, as for them, it is their way that is not adjusted right.” (Ezekiel 33:17) Then Jehovah proceeds to make plain the rightness of his way in dealing with his people in the time for executing judgment by adding:
16 “When someone righteous turns back from his righteousness and actually does injustice, he must also die for them. And when someone wicked turns back from his wickedness and actually carries on justice and righteousness, it will be on account of them that he himself will keep living.”—Ezekiel 33:18, 19.
17. As regards a righteous person’s course, what is it that counts with Jehovah on judgment day?
17 It is how a person ends up that counts with Jehovah, not what kind of a person, good or bad, that he was in the past. If Jehovah’s day for executing judgment finds that a once righteous person has turned to wickedness and has continued therein, then the penalty for sin must be inflicted upon him.
18. In contrast, what is the case with the wicked one, and what is there maladjusted about Jehovah’s way of dealing thusly?
18 However, if the arrival of Jehovah’s judgment day finds that a once wicked person has repented and turned to what is right in Jehovah’s eyes and has continued in this course, he will be spared execution as a reward for repenting, reforming and adhering to righteousness. Jehovah says that he has no pleasure in the death by execution of the wicked. He delights in the repenting and reforming of the wicked ones, because that means that He can spare them and let them keep on living in righteousness to Jehovah’s praise. When Jehovah punishes or rewards a person according to what he is on the day for executing judgment according to the divine standards concerning right and wrong, there is nothing maladjusted about that, is there? Hence in the approaching “great tribulation” we cannot expect our past course, if merely self-righteous, to count for us.
19. Like the ancient Israelites, why should we not hold onto our own manner of thinking as to Jehovah’s way, and so on what does a desirable decision toward us on judgment day depend?
19 Knowing that His way of handling judgment is adjusted right, Jehovah will proceed accordingly. That is why he warned the Israelites of this by saying: “And you people have said, ‘The way of Jehovah is not adjusted right.’ It will be each one according to his ways that I shall judge you, O house of Israel.” (Ezekiel 33:20) Let us therefore not consider God’s way to be wrongly adjusted and so hold onto our own wrong thinking. His ways are higher than our ways, and his thoughts than our thoughts. (Isaiah 55:8, 9) According to what our ways result in our being at His time for executing his judicial decisions is the way Jehovah will judge us, each one on an individual basis. O that his decision at that time toward us may be that we should “keep living”! Let us appreciate now that this all depends upon the deeds of each one of us during what remains of this “year of goodwill on the part of Jehovah.”—Isaiah 61:1, 2; 2 Corinthians 6:1, 2.
THE ESCAPEE ARRIVES WITH THE EYEWITNESS REPORT
20. Till what date did Ezekiel prove to be a vocal watchman to the house of Israel, and why was it that he survived Jerusalem’s destruction and loss of life till the report arrived?
20 The prophet Ezekiel proved to be a faithful vocal watchman toward the house of Israel. Till the tenth day of the tenth lunar month of the year 609 B.C.E., when the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem began, he courageously declared Jehovah’s warning to the disaster-threatened Israelites. The destruction of the rebellious city after eighteen months of intensifying siege brought death to an unstated number of besieged Jews. The toll of lives must have been great. But Jehovah was unable to ask back at the hand of Ezekiel the life of a single one of those many slain. Their blood was upon their own heads, because they had refused to pay attention to the warning sounded by watchman Ezekiel. As a result Ezekiel survived to receive finally a report that proved that his warnings as a watchman had not been baseless, unfounded. He tells us:
21, 22. When did the report arrive, what effect did it have as regards Jehovah and Ezekiel, and how long had the fugitive been on the way to deliver the report?
21 “At length it occurred in the twelfth year, in the tenth month, on the fifth day of the month of our exile, that there came to me the escaped one from Jerusalem, saying: ‘The city has been struck down!’”—Ezekiel 33:21.
22 Vindicated! Jehovah the Inspirer of the prophecies of Jerusalem’s calamity was vindicated! Ezekiel the watchman and proclaimer of those prophecies was vindicated! What a thrilling moment that was when that fugitive from more than five hundred miles away broke the not-unexpected news: “The city has been struck down!” It was on the fifth day of the tenth month (Tebeth) of the twelfth year of Ezekiel’s exile in Babylon. There are eight Hebrew manuscripts besides the Syriac Version and some manuscripts of the Greek Septuagint Version that read “eleventh year” instead of “twelfth year.” This would mean that the fugitive from Jerusalem arrived during the latter half of December of the year 607 B.C.E. Since 2 Kings 25:2-4 tells us that Jerusalem was struck down or breached by the Babylonians on the ninth day of the fourth month (Tammuz) of the eleventh year of King Zedekiah’s reign but of Ezekiel’s exile, this would mean that the fugitive arrived six months after Jerusalem was broken into and captured by the Babylonians. The time would come out the same if, as some do, we count year twelve from the Jewish New Year, Tishri 1, of 607 B.C.E.
23. When the report of the destruction of Christendom world wide comes, what will it authenticate about the anointed Ezekiel class, and who will be held accountable for all the loss of life then?
23 What a thrilling moment it will be when, during the coming “great tribulation” on this present system of things, the authentic news comes from all around the earth that the antitypical Jerusalem, Christendom, has fallen at the hands of Jehovah’s executional forces! This will be a vindication of the modern-day Ezekiel class, to authenticate that they have not been a false prophet but have been a faithful “watchman” class in sounding out Jehovah’s warnings to Christendom. The blood of clergymen and of other adherents of Christendom losing their lives at that time will be upon their own heads. Because these refused to heed the warning given, their blood will not be asked back by Jehovah at the hand of his appointed “watchman,” the anointed Ezekiel class. For her own error Christendom will perish. Jehovah will judge her in accord with her own hypocritical, bloodguilty ways.
24, 25. How was Ezekiel prepared in advance to hear the report?
24 The ancient prophet Ezekiel was prepared in advance to hear the news that, to an ordinary Jew or Israelite, would have been heartbreaking. Let us remember that the Jewish day began at eveningtime, at sundown, as we now read what Ezekiel tells us:
25 “Now the very hand of Jehovah had come to be upon me in the evening before the coming of the escaped one, and He proceeded to open my mouth prior to that one’s coming to me in the morning, and my mouth was opened and I proved to be speechless no longer.”—Ezekiel 33:22.
26. To compare with Jerusalem’s siege, how long did Ezekiel’s muteness last, and why did Jehovah choose to furnish an eyewitness report rather than an inspired report?
26 Thus Ezekiel’s muteness as regards his prophesying concerning the doomed Jerusalem lasted longer than the eighteen months of Jerusalem’s siege. His muteness had begun after he had miraculously been notified by inspiration of Jerusalem’s siege on the very day that it began. His muteness did not end by getting a miraculous communication on the day that Jerusalem was “struck down” by the Babylonians. His muteness continued after that event until it would be confirmed by the report of an escaped human eyewitness, whose report would be less questionable by Ezekiel’s fellow exiles than an inspired report to the prophet would be. But Jehovah knew that the escapee was near the end of his flight and about to make report, and so on the evening of the day of that one’s arrival Jehovah spoke to Ezekiel from the standpoint that Jerusalem had already been destroyed and there were some survivors yet in the land of Judah. To this effect Ezekiel now writes:
27. To those Jews surviving on the land of Judah after the striking down of Jerusalem, what did Jehovah tell Ezekiel to say about the possessing of the land?
27 “And the word of Jehovah began to occur to me, saying: ‘Son of man, the inhabitants of these devastated places are saying even concerning the soil of Israel, “Abraham happened to be just one and yet he took possession of the land. And we are many; to us the land has been given as something to possess.” Therefore say to them: “This is what the Sovereign Lord Jehovah has said: ‘With the blood you keep eating, and your eyes you keep lifting to your dungy idols, and blood you keep pouring out. So should you possess the land? You have depended upon your sword. You have done a detestable thing, and you have defiled each one the wife of his companion. So should you possess the land?’”’”—Ezekiel 33:23-26.
28. Of what were those survivors who had not been deported by the Babylonians still guilty, and what viewpoint did their comments about the land show that they took toward Jerusalem’s fall?
28 This shows that those Jews who had not been deported by the Babylonians but who were still permitted to stay on the land had not been properly affected by the destruction of Jerusalem. They had not viewed this as an expression of God’s condemnation of them and so had not repented of their violations of His law. They still continued to eat animal flesh from which the blood had not been drained according to God’s law; they still carried on false worship with detestable idols, idols smeared with dung; they still committed the detestable act of adultery, violating even their neighbor’s wife. It mattered not with Jehovah that they were many as compared with their ancestor, the patriarch Abraham, to whom the land had been promised by Jehovah. (Genesis 12:1-7) Because of their not turning away repentantly from their wicked ways, they did not deserve to keep possessing the land. (Jeremiah 42:1 to 44:25) Mere numbers did not count with Jehovah; obedience to his Law did!
DESOLATION OF THE LAND TO BE MADE COMPLETE
29. To what physical state was the land to be reduced, and how would Jehovah bring this about, and for what purpose?
29 Jehovah made it plain that those unrepentant, undeported sinners were due to be deprived of using the God-given land, for he now said to Ezekiel: “This is what you should say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord Jehovah has said: “As I am alive, surely the ones who are in the devastated places will fall by the sword itself; and the one who is upon the surface of the field, to the wild beast I shall certainly give him for food; and those who are in the strong places and in the caves will die by the pestilence itself. And I shall actually make the land a desolate waste, even a desolation, and the pride of its strength must be made to cease and the mountains of Israel must be laid desolate, with no one passing through. And they will have to know that I am Jehovah when I make the land a desolate waste, even a desolation, on account of all their detestable things that they have done.”’”—Ezekiel 33:27-29.
30. What decree concerning the desolation of the land was not to be set at nought, and when did that divine decree take effect?
30 Jehovah’s decree was not to be set at nought. He had decreed that the land of the Kingdom of Judah should be absolutely desolated of man and domesticated beast, with no one even passing through the desolated land because of fear of its being haunted by demons. It was to lie desolate in this manner for a full period of seventy years, in order that the God-given land might enjoy a sabbath period, to make up for all the sabbath years that the Jews had failed to keep regarding the land. (2 Chronicles 36:17-23; compare Daniel 9:1, 2; Jeremiah 9:11; 26:9; 32:43; 33:10-12; 34:22.) Consequently those defiers of Jehovah’s decree had to be ousted, and they were. The utter desolation of the land of Judah did begin in the seventh month of the year of Jerusalem’s destruction, about October 4/5 of the year 607 B.C.E. (2 Kings 25:18-26) Any Jewish fugitives round about who desired to repossess the land before the ending of seventy years of utter desolation were prevented from doing so.—Jeremiah 52:24-30.
31. What, corresponding to that, will befall Christendom, and what will the secular elements of this system of things have to know before their own destruction?
31 Correspondingly in our day, the realm, yes, the place that Christendom has occupied in this worldly system of things will be completely desolated without any of her religious institutions remaining therein. Before the so-called pagan, heathen part of Babylon the Great, Christendom will cease to be the dominant part of that world empire of false Babylonish religion. The secular elements of today’s worldwide system of things will look at the vacuum that she as well as the rest of Babylon the Great has left, but her they will see no more during the brief time before those secular elements are themselves annihilated in the worldwide “great tribulation” in which the whole system comes to a violent end. Christendom never did correctly put God’s name before those secular elements. Necessarily, then, in view of what the anointed Ezekiel class have long proclaimed world wide, those secular elements will have to come to the knowledge prescribed for them in the repeatedly stated formula: “They will have to know that I am Jehovah.”
ENTRANCED HEARERS, BUT NOT DOERS
32, 33. What observations did Jehovah make on the talk and attitudes of the people respecting Ezekiel, who today meet similar reactions from the people, and when things come true what will the people know?
32 As is well known, the modern Ezekiel class, the anointed remnant of Jehovah’s Christian witnesses, are a subject of much discussion among the people inside as well as outside of Christendom. But the people in general react toward them just the same as Ezekiel’s fellow exiles in Babylon reacted toward him and his prophesying, before the news of Jerusalem’s destruction broke upon them with stunning impact. Jehovah observed the exiles and said:
33 “And as for you, O son of man, the sons of your people are speaking with one another about you beside the walls and in the entrances of the houses, and the one has spoken with the other, each one with his brother, saying, ‘Come, please, and hear what the word is that is going forth from Jehovah.’ And they will come in to you, like the coming in of people, and sit before you as my people; and they will certainly hear your words but these they will not do, for with their mouth they are expressing lustful desires and after their unjust gain is where their heart is going. And, look! you are to them like a song of sensuous loves, like one with a pretty voice and playing a stringed instrument well. And they will certainly hear your words, but there are none doing them. And when it comes true—look! it must come true—they will also have to know that a prophet himself had proved to be in the midst of them.”—Ezekiel 33:30-33.
34. How do people today fit the description given by Jehovah, and how do they show they merely want to be entertained by the anointed Ezekiel class and Christian co-workers of these?
34 Whether beside walls casting cooling shade or in the doorways of their homes or elsewhere, people are gossiping and conversing at times after the Ezekiel class and the “great crowd” of their Christian coworkers come around, going from house to house preaching God’s Messianic kingdom and the “conclusion of the system of things.” (Matthew 24:3-14; Revelation 7:9-17) Many persons, even many who are still related to Christendom, will pass around nice compliments about these Christian witnesses of Jehovah. They may even come to the large public meetings of these witnesses or arrange for a home Bible study to be carried on with them and invite neighbors or relatives to join them in the study. They like the tone and directness of the divine message and respectfully listen to it. But they leave the matter hanging in suspense; they come to no energizing favorable decision toward Jehovah. They merely like to be entertained with a Biblically supported message. Their concern is not to appear outright irreligious, open to the charge of being atheistic communists.
35. At what cry on Christendom’s part may such persons be disturbed, and what decision with its consequent action do they hold back from making?
35 They may be disturbed by the cry of Christendom that Jehovah’s Christian witnesses are “false prophets!” They may not be fully convinced that these are true spokesmen for Jehovah the Sovereign Lord. To let themselves come to the conclusion that these were authentic spokesmen would oblige them to do the positive things about it. This would mean for them to stop holding on to lustful desire and going wholeheartedly after unjust gain.
36. What better course, unlike that of those people, should we take now, and of what value will the knowledge be that is forced upon people when the thing spoken comes true?
36 None of us should want to be like these indecisive, unresponding ones! Better it is to know now, rather than too late, that there is an authentic prophetic class of Christians among us, and to accept and act upon the Bible message, “not as the word of men, but, just as it truthfully is, as the word of God.” (1 Thessalonians 2:13) Concerning the message faithfully delivered by the Ezekiel class Jehovah positively states that it “must come true.” He asseverates that those who wait undecided until it does “come true” “will also have to know that a prophet himself had proved to be in the midst of them.” (Ezekiel 33:33) Such belated knowledge, however, will not mean salvation for them, for it will find their hearts and their ways to be unchanged.
37. What will hesitation and doubt down to the end gain for one, and what is the course of wisdom and of faith for us to take because of what prospect?
37 What is to be gained by hesitating and doubting to the end that Jehovah can raise up and has raised up a genuine “prophet” within our generation? Certainly it will gain for no one the divine favor and protection needed during the speedily approaching “great tribulation” upon Christendom and the rest of Babylon the Great. If our course is to be that of wisdom and of faith, then, with Bible in hand, we will heed the warning of Jehovah’s true watchman and will take refuge where Jehovah indicates in His Word. Then, when Jehovah’s prophetic watchman gets the report that Christendom has been stricken down, we, together with the faithful watchman, will continue to live on through the destruction of the whole world empire of false religion and of its secular paramours, with what prospect before us? Ah, with the prospect of enjoying all the unspeakably good things that Jehovah has in store for his worshipers in the righteous new system of pure religion. |
What Is the Will of God for My Life? | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502013145 | What Is the Will of God for My Life?
The Bible’s answer
God’s will is that you come to know him as a Person, draw close to him, and then love and serve him with your whole heart. (Matthew 22:37, 38; James 4:8) You can learn how to do God’s will from the life and teachings of Jesus. (John 7:16, 17) Jesus didn’t just talk about the will of God—he lived it. In fact, Jesus said that his purpose in life was “to do, not my will, but the will of him that sent me.”—John 6:38.
Do I need a special sign, vision, or calling to know what the will of God is for me?
No, because the Bible contains God’s message to mankind. It has what you need to be “completely equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16, 17) God wants you to use the Bible along with your “power of reason” to learn his will for you.—Romans 12:1, 2; Ephesians 5:17.
Can I really do God’s will?
Yes, you can, for the Bible says: “God’s commands are not too hard for us.” (1 John 5:3, Easy-to-Read Version) That’s not to say that obeying God’s commands is always easy. But the benefits you will gain far outweigh the effort you must put forth. Jesus himself said: “How happy are those who hear the word of God and obey it!”—Luke 11:28, Good News Translation. |
Examining the Scriptures—2019
2018 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/brochures-and-booklets/examining-the-scriptures/examining-the-scriptures-2019 | December
Sunday, December 1
Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.—1 Pet. 4:9.
In Bible times, hospitality normally included inviting someone to one’s home for a meal. (Gen. 18:1-8; Judg. 13:15; Luke 24:28-30) An invitation to share food was an invitation to friendship and peace. Who should be among our primary guests? Those who are a regular part of our lives, the brothers and sisters in our congregation. When hard times come, will we not depend on one another? We need loyal friendships and peace with all of them. Circuit overseers and students at theocratic schools may need places to stay, as may construction volunteers. Natural disasters may leave some families homeless and in need of lodging until relief efforts can restore their dwellings. We should not assume that only those who have very comfortable homes are in a position to help; they may already have done so many times. Could you share in offering accommodations even if your circumstances are modest? w18.03 15 ¶6; 16 ¶9
Monday, December 2
The righteous one may fall seven times, and he will get up again.—Prov. 24:16.
What will help one who falls to succeed? Not sheer willpower, but God’s spirit. (Phil. 4:13) The fruitage of that spirit includes self-control, which is closely related to self-discipline. Also important are heartfelt prayer, Bible study, and meditation. But what if you find it hard to study God’s Word? Perhaps you do not consider yourself to be studious. Keep in mind, however, that Jehovah will help you if you let him. He can help you to “form a longing” for his Word. (1 Pet. 2:2) First, pray to Jehovah for the needed self-discipline to study his Word. Then, work in harmony with your prayers, perhaps keeping study periods rather short. Over time, study will be both easier and more pleasurable! Indeed, you will find yourself cherishing your quiet times when you are absorbed in Jehovah’s precious thoughts.—1 Tim. 4:15. w18.03 29 ¶5-6
Tuesday, December 3
Baptism . . . is also now saving you.—1 Pet. 3:21.
Before a student can get baptized, he must cultivate faith based on accurate knowledge of God, His purpose, and His arrangement for salvation. (1 Tim. 2:3-6) Such faith moves the student to reject conduct that is displeasing to God and to come in line with Jehovah’s righteous standards. (Acts 3:19) Understandably, an individual could not make a valid dedication to God while engaging in any conduct that would exclude him from the Kingdom. (1 Cor. 6:9, 10) But more is needed than adhering to Jehovah’s elevated moral standards. One who is pursuing righteousness would also be present at congregation meetings and have a meaningful share in the lifesaving preaching and disciple-making work. (Acts 1:8) Only after taking such steps can a new disciple make a valid dedication to Jehovah in private prayer and then publicly symbolize this dedication by getting baptized before onlookers. w18.03 6 ¶12
Wednesday, December 4
[Mary] kept all these sayings in her heart.—Luke 2:51.
Why did Jehovah choose Mary to become Jesus’ mother? No doubt because she was a spiritually-minded person. She showed clear evidence of spirituality in her beautiful expressions of praise when she visited the home of her relatives Zechariah and Elizabeth. (Luke 1:46-55) Mary’s statements show that she had a deep love for God’s Word and was thoroughly familiar with the Hebrew Scriptures. (Gen. 30:13; 1 Sam. 2:1-10; Mal. 3:12) Note, too, that she and Joseph, although newly married, refrained from sexual relations until Jesus was born. This shows that both of them were more concerned with Jehovah’s will than with satisfying their personal desires. (Matt. 1:25) As time passed, Mary carefully noted what took place in Jesus’ life and paid attention to the words of wisdom he spoke. She was clearly interested in God’s purpose in connection with the Messiah. Does not Mary’s example help us to think of how we can put God’s will first in our life? w18.02 21 ¶11
Thursday, December 5
[Job] is an upright man of integrity.—Job 1:8.
How can we imitate Job’s faith and obedience? No matter what our circumstances may be, let us always keep Jehovah at the center of our lives, trusting him fully and obeying him with a complete heart. Indeed, we have even more reason to do so than Job had! Consider: We know a lot about Satan and his tactics. (2 Cor. 2:11) Thanks in part to the book of Job, we know why God permits suffering. From Daniel’s prophecy, we understand that God’s Kingdom is a world government in the hands of Christ Jesus. (Dan. 7:13, 14) And we know that this Kingdom will soon bring a permanent end to all suffering. Job’s experience also highlights our need to show compassion to fellow Christians who may be enduring hardships. Like Job, some may even speak rashly at times. (Eccl. 7:7) But instead of judging them, let us show insight and compassion. In this way, we imitate our loving and merciful Father, Jehovah.—Ps. 103:8. w18.02 6 ¶16; 7 ¶19-20
Friday, December 6
Your humility makes me great.—Ps. 18:35.
Some people become proud because of their good looks, popularity, musical ability, physical prowess, or exalted position. David had not just one of these assets but all of them; yet, he remained humble throughout his life. After he killed Goliath and was offered the daughter of King Saul to be his wife, David said: “Who am I . . . , for me to become son-in-law to the king?” (1 Sam. 18:18) Like David, Jehovah’s people today strive to show humility. We are awed by the knowledge that Jehovah, the greatest Person in the universe, manifests the appealing quality of humility. We take to heart the inspired counsel: “Clothe yourselves with the tender affections of compassion, kindness, humility, mildness, and patience.” (Col. 3:12) We also know that love “does not brag, does not get puffed up.” (1 Cor. 13:4) When we show humility, people may be drawn to Jehovah. w18.01 28 ¶6-7
Saturday, December 7
They . . . kept earnestly begging us for the privilege of kindly giving.—2 Cor. 8:4.
We may be asked to make donations for a specific purpose. (Acts 4:34, 35; 1 Cor. 16:2) For example, are there plans to build a new Kingdom Hall that your congregation will use? We may be made aware of financial needs with regard to a convention we are attending or assistance to our brothers after a natural disaster. We also donate to support those caring for the work at world headquarters and at branch offices around the earth. Our donations support missionaries, special pioneers, and those in the circuit work. All of us can have a share in supporting the work that Jehovah is accomplishing in these last days. Most donations are anonymous. We discreetly place funds in the contribution boxes at the Kingdom Hall, or we may make donations online through jw.org. We may feel that our small donations do not mean much. Yet, the majority of donated funds today come from many small gifts rather than from a few large ones. w18.01 19 ¶10-11
Sunday, December 8
Baptism . . . is . . . now saving you.—1 Pet. 3:21.
Baptism is a requirement for Christians, and it is an essential step to gaining salvation. (Matt. 28:19, 20) Your baptism symbolizes your dedication. It is a solemn promise that you made to Jehovah to love him and to put his will above everything else. Putting yourself in Jehovah’s hands is never a wrong move. Consider the alternative! A person who lives apart from Jehovah is under Satan’s rule. The Devil has no interest in your salvation. In fact, he would be happy if you lost out on everlasting life by siding with him in rejecting Jehovah’s sovereignty. In contrast to supporting Satan, consider the blessings you have as a dedicated and baptized Christian. Now that you have given your life to Jehovah, you can say with greater confidence than ever before: “Jehovah is on my side; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” (Ps. 118:6) You could have no greater privilege in life than being on God’s side and having him approve of you. w17.12 23-24 ¶1-3
Monday, December 9
Do not become upset and turn to doing evil.—Ps. 37:8.
There will be times when we will be irritated by the words or actions of fellow believers—or when they will be annoyed by ours. This can be a serious test. As with other tests, Jehovah allows us to prove our integrity by learning to work unitedly with dedicated men and women whom he loves despite their imperfections. That Jehovah does not prevent his servants from being tested is illustrated by the account of Joseph. As a young man, Joseph was sold into slavery by his jealous half brothers and taken to Egypt. (Gen. 37:28) Jehovah saw what was happening and no doubt was grieved to observe the way his friend, righteous Joseph, was being treated. Still, He did not intervene. Later, when Joseph was accused of trying to rape Potiphar’s wife and was thrown into prison, Jehovah still did not step in. But did God ever abandon Joseph? On the contrary: “Jehovah made whatever [Joseph] did successful.”—Gen. 39:21-23. w18.01 9-10 ¶12-14
Tuesday, December 10
If, indeed, there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised up.—1 Cor. 15:13.
What are the key teachings of your faith? Surely you would stress that Jehovah is the Creator and Life-Giver. You would likely mention your belief in Jesus Christ, who died as a ransom. And you would happily add that an earthly paradise is ahead, where God’s people will live forever. But would you mention the resurrection as one of your most cherished beliefs? We have good reasons to include the resurrection as a key teaching even if we personally hope to survive the great tribulation and live on earth forever. The resurrection is central to our faith. Had Christ not been resurrected, he would not be our ruling King, and our teaching about Christ’s rule would be in vain. (1 Cor. 15:12-19) However, we know that Jesus was resurrected, and we hold firm to our belief in the resurrection.—Mark 12:18; Acts 4:2, 3; 17:32; 23:6-8. w17.12 8 ¶1-2
Wednesday, December 11
You have disregarded the weightier matters of the Law, namely, justice and mercy.—Matt. 23:23.
The Pharisees focused solely on what a sinner had done rather than on who a sinner was at heart. When Pharisees saw Jesus attending a banquet at Matthew’s home, they asked his disciples: “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” Jesus replied: “Healthy people do not need a physician, but those who are ill do. Go, then, and learn what this means: ‘I want mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came to call, not righteous people, but sinners.” (Matt. 9:9-13) Was Jesus excusing serious wrongdoing? Not at all. In fact, Jesus’ principal message included the call to repent from sin. (Matt. 4:17) Nevertheless, Jesus insightfully noted that at least some of these “tax collectors and sinners” wanted to change. They were not at Matthew’s home simply to eat. Rather, “there were many of them who were following [Jesus].” (Mark 2:15) Sadly, most Pharisees failed to see in such ones what Jesus saw. w17.11 13 ¶2; 16 ¶15
Thursday, December 12
Clothe yourselves with love, for it is a perfect bond of union.—Col. 3:14.
We all agree that being part of the Christian congregation is a blessing. The study of God’s Word at our meetings and the kind and loving support that we give one another help us to keep our eyes focused on the prize. Nevertheless, at times, misunderstandings may lead to some tension among members of the congregation. If we fail to resolve such problems, they could easily lead to feelings of resentment. (1 Pet. 3:8, 9) How can we prevent resentment from depriving us of the prize? Paul urged the Colossians: “As God’s chosen ones, holy and loved, clothe yourselves with the tender affections of compassion, kindness, humility, mildness, and patience. Continue putting up with one another and forgiving one another freely even if anyone has a cause for complaint against another. Just as Jehovah freely forgave you, you must also do the same.”—Col. 3:12, 13. w17.11 27 ¶7-8
Friday, December 13
He must flee to one of these cities.—Josh. 20:4.
After he accidentally killed someone, a fugitive first had to “present his case in the hearing of the elders” at the gate of the city of refuge to which he had fled. He was to be received hospitably. Some time later, he was sent back to the elders of the city where the killing had occurred, and those elders judged the case. (Num. 35:24, 25) Only after they had declared the killing accidental would the fugitive be returned to the city of refuge. Why were the elders involved? They were to keep the congregation of Israel clean and to help the unintentional manslayer to benefit from Jehovah’s mercy. One Bible scholar wrote that if the fugitive neglected to approach the elders, “it was at his peril . . . because he did not make use of the security God had provided for him.” If he did not seek refuge in one of the cities Jehovah had set aside, the closest relative of the person he had killed was free to put him to death. w17.11 9 ¶6-7
Saturday, December 14
Are they not all spirits for holy service, sent out to minister for those who are going to inherit salvation?—Heb. 1:14.
Jehovah of armies still uses his angels to protect and strengthen his people. (Mal. 3:6; Heb. 1:7) Ever since spiritual Israel was released from symbolic captivity to Babylon the Great in 1919, the expansion of true worship has been unstoppable despite relentless opposition. (Rev. 18:4) Because we have angelic protection, we need not fear that Jehovah’s organization might go through another time of spiritual oppression. (Ps. 34:7) Instead, we can be sure that God’s servants worldwide will continue to flourish spiritually. We have a cavalry on our side. At that critical moment during the great tribulation, the angelic soldiers of Jehovah of armies will come together to protect God’s people and destroy those who oppose his sovereignty. (2 Thess. 1:7, 8) What a day that will be! w17.10 28 ¶10-11
Sunday, December 15
Build yourselves up on your most holy faith, and pray with holy spirit.—Jude 20.
When a family member is disfellowshipped or he disassociates himself from the congregation, it can feel like the stab of a sword. How can you cope with the pain that this brings? It is important to keep up your spiritual routine. Build yourself up by regularly reading the Bible, preparing for and attending Christian meetings, sharing in the field ministry, and praying for the strength to endure. (Jude 21) But what if you feel that your heart is not in your activity, that you are just going through the motions? Do not give up! A good spiritual routine can help you to gain control of your thoughts and feelings. Consider the experience of the writer of Psalm 73. He had developed a wrong viewpoint and had become greatly troubled, but he was able to correct his thinking when he entered God’s place of worship. (Ps. 73:16, 17) Your faithfully worshipping Jehovah can help you to do the same. w17.10 16 ¶17-18
Monday, December 16
Let your love be without hypocrisy.—Rom. 12:9.
In the garden of Eden, Satan pretended to be looking out for Eve’s best interests, but his actions were actually selfish and hypocritical. (Gen. 3:4, 5) In David’s day, Ahithophel proved that his friendship with the king was a fraud. Ahithophel turned traitor when he felt that he would gain an advantage. (2 Sam. 15:31) Likewise today, apostates and others who create divisions in the congregation use “smooth talk and flattering speech” to make themselves appear to be loving, but their true motive is selfish. (Rom. 16:17, 18) Hypocritical love is especially shameful because it is a counterfeit of the godly quality of self-sacrificing love. Such hypocrisy might fool men, but not Jehovah. In fact, Jesus said that those who are like hypocrites would be punished “with the greatest severity.” (Matt. 24:51) So we do well to ask ourselves, ‘Is my love always genuine, not tainted by selfishness or deception?’ w17.10 8 ¶6-8
Tuesday, December 17
They have a zeal for God, but not according to accurate knowledge.—Rom. 10:2.
When we read directly from God’s Word in the ministry, we are letting Jehovah speak to the householder. A well-chosen scripture will likely be much more powerful than anything we might say. (1 Thess. 2:13) Ask yourself, ‘Do I look for every opportunity to share a portion of God’s Word with those to whom I bring the good news?’ Of course, more is needed than merely reading Bible texts to those we are conversing with. Why? Because many have little or no understanding of the Bible. That was true in the first century, and it is true today. So we should not assume that a person will grasp the point of a verse simply because we read it. We need to take time to isolate portions of the verse—perhaps rereading key words—and explain their meaning. Doing so can go a long way in helping the message of God’s Word to reach the mind and heart of our listeners.—Luke 24:32. w17.09 25 ¶7-8
Wednesday, December 18
Have . . . tender compassion.—1 Pet. 3:8.
Showing compassion for one’s neighbor and Christian brothers is a basic requirement of those who strive to imitate Jesus. (John 13:34, 35) One meaning of compassion is “to suffer together.” A person who shows compassion is moved to relieve others’ suffering, perhaps by helping them out of their difficulties. Seek opportunities to do so! The sufferings of those struck by disasters move many to manifest compassion. Jehovah’s people are known for coming forward to help in such times of need. (1 Pet. 2:17) One Japanese sister lived in an area that was seriously damaged by the earthquake and tsunami of 2011. She says that she was “very encouraged and comforted” by the efforts of the many volunteers from elsewhere in Japan and from overseas to repair property damage. She writes: “This experience helped me to realize that Jehovah cares. And fellow Witnesses care about one another. Many brothers and sisters all over the world are praying for us.” w17.09 11 ¶12-13
Thursday, December 19
The fruitage of the spirit is . . . self-control.—Gal. 5:22, 23.
Why should you be interested in cultivating self-control? Consider two important reasons. First, it has been observed that people who are able to control their impulses generally have fewer major problems. They are more stable emotionally, they are better at forming wholesome relationships, and they are not as angry and prone to anxiety and depression as are impulsive people. Second, the ability to resist temptation and to control inappropriate impulses is fundamental to retaining God’s favor. The failure of Adam and Eve illustrates this truth. (Gen. 3:6) And think of the sad results reaped by others who since then have failed to exercise this important quality. No imperfect human can exercise perfect self-control. Jehovah is aware of his servants’ struggles in this regard, and he wants to help them dominate their sinful tendencies.—1 Ki. 8:46-50. w17.09 3-4 ¶3-4
Friday, December 20
Clothe yourselves with the new personality.—Col. 3:10.
At one time, Witnesses of different skin color in South Africa could not freely associate with one another. However, on Sunday, December 18, 2011, it was a wonderful sight to see over 78,000 of our brothers of different races from South Africa and neighboring countries packed into the largest stadium in the city of Johannesburg to enjoy a spiritual program. One of the managers of the stadium said: “This is the best-behaved crowd I have ever seen in this stadium. All are neatly dressed. And you people have cleaned the stadium so nicely. But most of all, you are truly multiracial.” Such comments by non-Witnesses show that our international brotherhood is truly unique. (1 Pet. 5:9, ftn.) What, though, makes us so different from any other organization? With the help of God’s Word and his holy spirit, we work hard to “strip off the old personality.” In its place, we “clothe [ourselves] with the new personality.”—Col. 3:9. w17.08 17-18 ¶2-3
Saturday, December 21
You too exercise patience.—Jas. 5:8.
According to the Bible, patience is a product of holy spirit; without God’s help, imperfect humans cannot be patient to the degree needed. Patience is a gift from God, and being patient is a key way to show our love for him. Patience is also an expression of our love for others. Persistent impatience weakens the bonds of love; patience strengthens them. (1 Cor. 13:4; Gal. 5:22) Patience involves a number of other vital Christian qualities. For example, it is closely connected with endurance, which enables us to put up with difficult circumstances while maintaining a positive attitude. (Col. 1:11; Jas. 1:3, 4) Patience can also involve suffering without retaliating and remaining firm and steadfast no matter what may come our way. Additionally, the Bible urges us to accept willingly the need to wait. This aspect of patience is highlighted at James 5:7, 8. w17.08 4 ¶4
Sunday, December 22
Do not be anxious, for I am your God. I will fortify you, yes, I will help you.—Isa. 41:10.
You young ones will probably agree that before starting a journey, it is wise to plan where you will go. Life is like a journey, and the time to plan where you want to go is when you are young. Of course, making plans can be challenging. But take courage. Note what Jehovah says in today’s text. Jehovah urges you to plan wisely for your future. (Eccl. 12:1; Matt. 6:20) He wants you to be happy. The delightful sights, sounds, and tastes of creation tell you that. Consider, too, how he cares for us and teaches us the best way of life. To those who reject his advice, Jehovah says: “You chose what displeased me. . . . Look! My servants will rejoice, but you will suffer shame. Look! My servants will shout joyfully because of the good condition of the heart.” (Isa. 65:12-14) Jehovah is glorified when his people make wise choices in life.—Prov. 27:11. w17.07 22 ¶1-2
Monday, December 23
[Jehovah] calls all of [the stars] by name.—Ps. 147:4.
The God who knows where each star is at any given time also knows you as an individual—exactly where you are, precisely how you feel, and specifically what you need at any given moment! Not only is Jehovah interested in you as a person but he also has the power and empathy needed to help you with life’s problems. (Ps. 147:5) You may feel that your situation is too difficult and the load too heavy for you to carry. God understands your limitations, ‘remembering that you are dust.’ (Ps. 103:14) Being imperfect, we make the same mistakes again and again. Oh, how we regret that slip of the tongue, those fleshly tendencies that flare up every now and then, or those inclinations to envy what others have! Jehovah does not experience such shortcomings himself; yet, his understanding of us is immeasurable, unsearchable! (Isa. 40:28) You may already have experienced how Jehovah’s mighty hand helped you to recover from some trial.—Isa. 41:10, 13. w17.07 18-19 ¶6-8
Tuesday, December 24
The generous person will be blessed.—Prov. 22:9.
A brother from Sri Lanka, now living abroad, has made his property back home available for meetings and assemblies and for housing full-time servants. It is a financial sacrifice for the brother but a great help to the local publishers of little means. In a land where the work is restricted, brothers make their homes available for use as local Kingdom Halls, allowing many pioneers and others with limited funds to have a meeting place without a financial burden. A sister who contributes regularly to the Kingdom work tells of a blessing she has received: “By being materially generous, I have experienced an unusual phenomenon within myself over the years. I find that the more generous I am materially, the more generous my disposition toward others has become. I am more generous in being forgiving, in being patient with others, and in being able to accept disappointments and counsel.” w17.07 9 ¶9-10
Wednesday, December 25
Jehovah said to Satan: “Look! Everything that he has is in your hand.”—Job 1:12.
Even if Job eventually better understood the reason for his trials, he may on occasion have thought about why it was necessary for him to suffer to such an extent. Whatever his thoughts, he could reflect on God’s counsel. Doing so would help him maintain the proper perspective and, in turn, provide comfort. (Ps. 94:19, ftn.) We too can acquire proper perspective and gain comfort from the account of Job. After all, Jehovah had it preserved “for our instruction, so that through our endurance and through the comfort from the Scriptures we might have hope.” (Rom. 15:4) What is the lesson for us? Primarily this: Let us not become so absorbed in our own lives that we lose sight of this big issue—the vindication of Jehovah’s sovereignty. And let us appreciate that our role in this vital issue entails remaining faithful even under difficult circumstances, as did Job. w17.06 24 ¶9; 25 ¶13-14
Thursday, December 26
Come, you yourselves, privately into an isolated place and rest up a little.—Mark 6:31.
Jesus recognized the need to rest on occasion. Following one particularly intense witnessing campaign, he told his disciples the words stated above. Indeed, recreation and entertainment fill an important need. However, the danger exists that having a good time could become the primary focus of our life. Back in the first century, many had the attitude “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we are to die.” (1 Cor. 15:32) That same spirit prevails in many parts of the world today. How can we determine if we have a balanced view of recreation? We could select a week and keep a record of the number of hours we spend on spiritual activities. Then we could compare that figure to the number of hours we spent that same week on recreational activities, such as participating in sports, enjoying hobbies, watching television, or playing video games. Might there be a need to cut back on the latter?—Eph. 5:15, 16. w17.05 24-25 ¶11-13
Friday, December 27
The Kingdom of the heavens is like a traveling merchant seeking fine pearls.—Matt. 13:45.
In Jesus’ illustration, the merchant found a magnificent pearl. But to buy it would mean that he would have to sell everything else that he owned. Can you imagine how precious that pearl was to him? The truth of God’s Kingdom is like that priceless pearl. If we love it as much as the merchant loved that pearl, we will be willing to give up everything in order to become and to remain one of the subjects of the Kingdom. (Mark 10:28-30) Zacchaeus, for example, had become rich by extorting money. (Luke 19:1-9) Yet, when that unrighteous man heard Jesus preach about the Kingdom, he recognized the excelling value of what he was hearing and took immediate action. He exclaimed: “Look! The half of my belongings, Lord, I am giving to the poor, and whatever I extorted from anyone, I am restoring four times over.” He gladly gave up his ill-gotten riches and abandoned his greed for material things. w17.06 10 ¶3-5
Saturday, December 28
No greater joy do I have than this: that I should hear that my children go on walking in the truth.—3 John 4.
Those whom parents choose to help their children should always build up the young ones’ respect for their parents, speaking positively about them, not taking over their responsibility. Moreover, those who help should avoid any conduct that could be misinterpreted by some inside or outside the congregation as morally questionable. (1 Pet. 2:12) Parents must not merely turn their children over to others for spiritual training. They must monitor the help given by companions and continue to teach their children themselves. Parents, pray to Jehovah for help, and try your best. (2 Chron. 15:7) Put your child’s friendship with Jehovah ahead of your own interests. Do whatever you can to ensure that God’s Word reaches your child’s heart. Never stop believing that your child can become a fine servant of Jehovah. w17.05 12 ¶19-20
Sunday, December 29
It is unthinkable, from Jehovah’s standpoint, for me to give you the inheritance of my forefathers.—1 Ki. 21:3.
Imagine the scene. A man is falsely accused of a capital offense. To the shock and dismay of his family and friends, he is convicted on the basis of false testimony presented by witnesses who are known to be good-for-nothing men. A sick feeling overwhelms lovers of justice as they witness the execution of that innocent man and his sons. This is not an imaginary account. This was the experience of a faithful servant of Jehovah named Naboth, who lived during the reign of King Ahab of Israel. (1 Ki. 21:11-13; 2 Ki. 9:26) When King Ahab offered to purchase Naboth’s vineyard or to give him a better vineyard in its place, Naboth refused. Why? Naboth’s refusal was based on Jehovah’s law to the nation of Israel that forbade the permanent sale of one’s tribal inheritance. (Lev. 25:23; Num. 36:7) Clearly, Naboth had Jehovah’s view of matters. w17.04 23 ¶1; 24 ¶4
Monday, December 30
Just a little while longer, and the wicked will be no more; you will look at where they were, and they will not be there.—Ps. 37:10.
Who will remain in place of wicked people? Jehovah makes this heartwarming promise: “The meek will possess the earth, and they will find exquisite delight in the abundance of peace.” Later in the same psalm, we read: “The righteous will possess the earth, and they will live forever on it.” (Ps. 37:11, 29) Who are “the meek” and “the righteous”? The meek are those who humbly accept Jehovah’s teaching and guidance; the righteous are those who love doing what is right in the eyes of Jehovah God. In today’s world, righteous people are greatly outnumbered by the wicked. But in the new world to come, the meek and the righteous will be neither a minority nor a majority; they will be the only people alive. Truly, a population of such people will make the earth a paradise! w17.04 10-11 ¶5-6
Tuesday, December 31
Do not withhold good . . . if it is within your power to help.—Prov. 3:27.
“The love of God” compels us to show love to one another, especially in dire situations. (1 John 3:17, 18) When famine threatened Judean Christians in the first century, the congregation organized help for them. (Acts 11:28, 29) The apostles Paul and Peter also exhorted Christians to be hospitable to one another. (Rom. 12:13; 1 Pet. 4:9) If Christians are to welcome visiting brothers, how much more should they welcome fellow believers whose lives are in danger or who have been persecuted for their faith! Recently, thousands of Jehovah’s Witnesses had to flee conflict and persecution in eastern Ukraine. Tragically, some were killed. But most of them were taken in by their spiritual brothers elsewhere in Ukraine and in Russia. In both countries, they remain politically neutral, being “no part of the world,” and continue zealously “declaring the good news of the word.”—John 15:19; Acts 8:4. w17.05 4 ¶6-7 |
Knowledge (kl)
1995 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/kl | Chapter 16
How You Can Draw Close to God
1. What similarities are evident in many religions?
A TOURIST visiting an Oriental country was amazed at the religious rituals she observed at a Buddhist temple. Although the images were not those of Mary or Christ, many of the rituals resembled those of her church back home. For instance, she noted the use of rosaries and the chanting of prayers. Others too have made such comparisons. East or West, the ways in which devotees try to draw close to God or to the objects of their worship are remarkably similar.
2. How has prayer been described, and why do many people pray?
2 Many especially try to draw close to God by praying to him. Prayer has been described as “an act of communication by man with the sacred or holy—God, the gods, the transcendent realm, or supernatural powers.” (The New Encyclopædia Britannica) When approaching God in prayer, however, some think only in terms of what they can get out of it. For example, a man once asked one of Jehovah’s Witnesses: “If you pray for me, will the problems I have in my family, at work, and with my health be solved?” Apparently the man thought so, but many pray and find that their problems persist. So we might ask, ‘Just why should we draw close to God?’
WHY DRAW CLOSE TO GOD
3. To whom should our prayers be directed, and why?
3 Prayer is not an empty ritual, nor is it merely a means by which to gain something. A major reason for approaching God is to have a close relationship with him. Our prayers should therefore be directed to Jehovah God. “Jehovah is near to all those calling upon him,” said the psalmist David. (Psalm 145:18) Jehovah invites us to come into a peaceful relationship with him. (Isaiah 1:18) Those responding to this invitation agree with the psalmist who said: “As for me, the drawing near to God is good for me.” Why? Because those who draw near to Jehovah God will enjoy true happiness and peace of mind.—Psalm 73:28.
4, 5. (a) Why is it important to pray to God? (b) What kind of relationship can we build with God through prayer?
4 Why pray to God for help if he ‘knows what we need before we ask him’? (Matthew 6:8; Psalm 139:4) Prayer shows that we have faith in God and view him as the Source of “every good gift and every perfect present.” (James 1:17; Hebrews 11:6) Jehovah takes pleasure in our prayers. (Proverbs 15:8) He is glad to hear our meaningful expressions of appreciation and praise, just as a father rejoices at hearing his young child speak sincere words of gratitude. (Psalm 119:108) Where there is a good father-child relationship, there is warm communication. A child who is loved wants to talk to his father. The same is true when it comes to our relationship with God. If we really appreciate what we are learning about Jehovah and the love he has shown for us, we will have a strong desire to express ourselves to him in prayer.—1 John 4:16-18.
5 When approaching the Most High God, we should be respectful, though there is no need to worry excessively about the exact words that we use. (Hebrews 4:16) We always have access to Jehovah. And what a privilege it is that we can ‘pour out our heart’ to God in prayer! (Psalm 62:8) Appreciation for Jehovah leads to a warm relationship with him, like the one that the faithful man Abraham enjoyed as God’s friend. (James 2:23) But when praying to the Sovereign Lord of the universe, we must comply with his requirements for approaching him.
REQUIREMENTS FOR DRAWING CLOSE TO GOD
6, 7. Though God does not demand payment to hear our prayers, what does he require of us when we pray?
6 Is money needed in order to approach God? Many people pay the clergy to pray for them. Some even believe that their prayers will be heard in proportion to the size of the donation they make. However, God’s Word does not say that a monetary offering is required for us to approach Jehovah in prayer. His spiritual provisions and the blessings of a relationship with him in prayer are available without price.—Isaiah 55:1, 2.
7 What, then, is required? A right heart attitude is one essential. (2 Chronicles 6:29, 30; Proverbs 15:11) In our heart we must exercise faith in Jehovah God as the “Hearer of prayer” and “the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him.” (Psalm 65:2; Hebrews 11:6) We must also have a humble heart. (2 Kings 22:19; Psalm 51:17) In one of his illustrations, Jesus Christ showed that when approaching God a humble tax collector with a lowly heart attitude proved more righteous than an arrogant Pharisee. (Luke 18:10-14) As we approach God in prayer, let us remember that “everyone that is proud in heart is something detestable to Jehovah.”—Proverbs 16:5.
8. If we wish to have God answer our prayers, of what must we cleanse ourselves?
8 If we desire to have God answer our prayers, we have to cleanse ourselves of sinful conduct. When the disciple James encouraged others to draw close to God, he added: “Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you indecisive ones.” (James 4:8) Even wrongdoers can come into a peaceful relationship with Jehovah if they repent and leave their former way of life. (Proverbs 28:13) We cannot have audience with Jehovah if we merely pretend that we have cleansed our way. “The eyes of Jehovah are upon the righteous ones, and his ears are toward their supplication; but the face of Jehovah is against those doing bad things,” says God’s Word.—1 Peter 3:12.
9. Through whom should we approach Jehovah, and why?
9 The Bible states: “There is no man righteous in the earth that keeps doing good and does not sin.” (Ecclesiastes 7:20) You might therefore ask: ‘How, then, can we approach Jehovah God?’ The Bible answers: “If anyone does commit a sin, we have a helper with the Father, Jesus Christ, a righteous one.” (1 John 2:1) Though we are sinners, we can approach God with freeness of speech through Jesus Christ, who died as a ransom for us. (Matthew 20:28) He is the only channel through whom we can approach Jehovah God. (John 14:6) We must not take the merit of Jesus’ ransom sacrifice for granted and deliberately practice sin. (Hebrews 10:26) However, if we are doing our best to refrain from what is bad and yet err at times, we can repent and ask God for forgiveness. When we approach him with a humble heart, he will hear us.—Luke 11:4.
OPPORTUNITIES TO TALK TO GOD
10. When it comes to prayer, how can we imitate Jesus, and what are some occasions for private prayer?
10 Jesus Christ valued his relationship with Jehovah very highly. Therefore, Jesus made time to talk to God in private prayer. (Mark 1:35; Luke 22:40-46) We do well to imitate Jesus’ example and pray to God on a regular basis. (Romans 12:12) It is fitting to start the day off with words of prayer, and before going to bed, we can rightly thank Jehovah for the day’s activity. During the day, make it a point to approach God “on every occasion.” (Ephesians 6:18) We can even pray silently in our heart, knowing that Jehovah can hear us. Privately talking to God helps us to cement our relationship with him, and praying to Jehovah daily helps us to draw ever closer to him.
11. (a) Why should families pray together? (b) What does it mean when you say “Amen” at the end of a prayer?
11 Jehovah also listens to prayers offered on behalf of groups of people. (1 Kings 8:22-53) We can draw close to God as a family, with the head of the household taking the lead. This strengthens the family bond, and Jehovah becomes real to young ones as they hear their parents humbly pray to God. What if someone is representing a group in prayer, perhaps at a meeting of Jehovah’s Witnesses? If we are in the audience, let us listen attentively so that at the end of the prayer, we can wholeheartedly say “Amen,” which means “So be it.”—1 Corinthians 14:16.
PRAYERS THAT JEHOVAH HEARS
12. (a) Why does God not answer some prayers? (b) Why should we not concentrate solely on personal needs when praying?
12 Some may feel that God does not answer their prayers even though they pray to him through Christ. However, the apostle John said: “No matter what it is that we ask according to [God’s] will, he hears us.” (1 John 5:14) So, then, we need to ask according to God’s will. Since he is interested in our spiritual welfare, anything affecting our spirituality is an appropriate subject for prayer. We must resist the temptation to concentrate entirely on physical needs. For instance, while it is proper to pray for insight and fortitude to deal with illness, worries about health should not crowd out spiritual interests. (Psalm 41:1-3) Having become aware that she was overly concerned about her health, one Christian woman asked Jehovah for help to have the proper view of her illness. As a result, her health problems became a much smaller issue, and she felt that she was given “power beyond what is normal.” (2 Corinthians 4:7) Her desire to be of spiritual help to others intensified, and she became a full-time Kingdom proclaimer.
13. As indicated at Matthew 6:9-13, what are some suitable subjects that we can include in our prayers?
13 What may we include in our prayers so that Jehovah will be pleased to hear them? Jesus Christ taught his disciples how to pray. In the model prayer recorded at Matthew 6:9-13, he set out a pattern of subjects about which we may rightly pray. What should be of chief concern in our prayers? Jehovah God’s name and Kingdom must be the top priority. Asking for our material needs is appropriate. It is also important to ask for forgiveness of our sins and for deliverance from temptations and the wicked one, Satan the Devil. Jesus did not want us to chant this prayer or to repeat it over and over, reciting it without thinking about its meaning. (Matthew 6:7) What kind of relationship would it be if a child used the same words every time he spoke to his father?
14. Besides petitions, what prayers should we offer?
14 Besides petitions and heartfelt supplications, we should offer prayers of praise and thanksgiving. (Psalm 34:1; 92:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:18) We can also pray for others. Prayers regarding our spiritual brothers and sisters who are afflicted or persecuted show our interest in them, and Jehovah is pleased to hear us express such concern. (Luke 22:32; John 17:20; 1 Thessalonians 5:25) In fact, the apostle Paul wrote: “Do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving let your petitions be made known to God; and the peace of God that excels all thought will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus.”—Philippians 4:6, 7.
PERSEVERE IN PRAYER
15. What should we remember if our prayers seem to go unanswered?
15 Though you are gaining knowledge about God, you may feel that your prayers sometimes go unanswered. This could be the case because it may not be God’s time to answer a specific prayer. (Ecclesiastes 3:1-9) Jehovah may allow a situation to continue for a while, but he does answer prayers and knows the best time to do so.—2 Corinthians 12:7-9.
16. Why should we persist in prayer, and how can doing this affect our relationship with God?
16 Our persistence in prayer reveals our heartfelt interest in what we are saying to God. (Luke 18:1-8) For example, we may ask Jehovah to help us overcome a certain weakness. By persevering in prayer and acting in harmony with our petitions, we show our sincerity. We should be specific and honest in our petitions. It is especially important to pray intensely when we are experiencing a temptation. (Matthew 6:13) As we continue to pray while trying to control our sinful urges, we will see how Jehovah helps us. This will build up our faith and strengthen our relationship with him.—1 Corinthians 10:13; Philippians 4:13.
17. How will we benefit from a prayerful attitude in serving God?
17 By cultivating a prayerful attitude in rendering sacred service to Jehovah God, we will come to realize that we do not serve him in our own strength. It is Jehovah who gets things done. (1 Corinthians 4:7) Acknowledging this will help us to be humble and will enrich our relationship with him. (1 Peter 5:5, 6) Yes, we have sound reasons to persevere in prayer. Our earnest prayers and precious knowledge of how to draw close to our loving heavenly Father will make our life truly happy.
COMMUNICATION WITH JEHOVAH NOT ONE-SIDED
18. How can we listen to God?
18 If we want God to hear our prayers, we must listen to what he says. (Zechariah 7:13) He no longer sends his messages through divinely inspired prophets and surely does not use spiritistic means. (Deuteronomy 18:10-12) But we can listen to God by studying his Word, the Bible. (Romans 15:4; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17) Just as we may need to acquire a taste for physical food that is good for us, we are urged to “form a longing for the unadulterated milk belonging to the word.” Cultivate a taste for spiritual food by reading God’s Word daily.—1 Peter 2:2, 3; Acts 17:11.
19. Of what benefit is it to meditate on what you read in the Bible?
19 Meditate on what you read in the Bible. (Psalm 1:1-3; 77:11, 12) That means to ponder over the material. You might liken this to digesting food. You can digest spiritual food by relating what you are reading to things you already know. Consider how the material affects your life, or reflect on what it reveals about Jehovah’s qualities and dealings. Thus through personal study, you can take in the spiritual food that Jehovah provides. This will draw you closer to God and will help you to deal with day-to-day problems.
20. How does attending Christian meetings help us to draw close to God?
20 You can also draw close to God by listening to his Word discussed at Christian meetings, just as the Israelites listened attentively when they gathered to hear the public reading of God’s Law. The instructors of that time put meaning into their reading of the Law, thus helping their listeners to understand and be moved to apply what they heard. This led to great joy. (Nehemiah 8:8, 12) So make it your custom to attend the meetings of Jehovah’s Witnesses. (Hebrews 10:24, 25) This will help you to understand and then apply the knowledge of God in your life and will bring you happiness. Being a part of the worldwide Christian brotherhood will help you to stay close to Jehovah. And as we shall see, you can find true security among God’s people.
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
Why should you draw close to Jehovah?
What are some requirements for drawing close to God?
What can you include in your prayers?
Why should you persevere in prayer?
How can you listen to Jehovah today?
[Full-page picture on page 157] |
Survival (su)
1984 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/su | Prophetic Patterns and Descriptions of People Now Living Who Will Inherit the Earthly Realm of God’s Kingdom
Foreshadowed by the following groups or individuals:
(1) Noah’s sons and daughters-in-law (Genesis 6-9).
(2) Lot and his daughters (Genesis 19).
(3) Joseph’s ten repentant half brothers (Genesis 37, 42-45).
(4) Famine-stricken Egyptians who sold themselves to Joseph (Genesis 41; 47:13-26).
(5) Mixed company that left Egypt with Israel (Exodus 12:38).
(6) Twelve non-Levite tribes of Israel on Atonement Day (Leviticus 16; Matthew 19:28).
(7) Alien residents in Israel (Leviticus 19:34).
(8) Hobab the brother-in-law of Moses (Numbers 10:29-32).
(9) Rahab of Jericho (Joshua 2, 6).
(10) Gibeonites who sought peace with Israel (Joshua 9, 10).
(11) Jael the wife of Heber the Kenite (Judges 4, 5).
(12) Jonathan son of King Saul (1 Samuel 18; 23:16, 17).
(13) Foreigners who fought along with David (2 Samuel 15:18-22).
(14) Queen of Sheba (1 Kings 10).
(15) Naaman cleansed of leprosy (2 Kings 5).
(16) Jehonadab the son of Rechab (2 Kings 10:15-28).
(17) Foreigners who prayed toward Jehovah’s temple (2 Chronicles 6:32, 33).
(18) Nethinim and sons of non-Israelite servants of Solomon (Ezra 2, 8).
(19) Rechabites (Jeremiah 35).
(20) Ebed-melech the Ethiopian (Jeremiah 38; 39:16-18).
(21) Repentant Ninevites (Jonah 3).
Additionally, described prophetically as follows:
(1) Families of the ground that bless themselves by means of Abraham through his seed (Genesis 12:3; 22:18).
(2) Nations that are glad with Jehovah’s people (Deuteronomy 32:43).
(3) Righteous ones, those hoping in Jehovah (Psalm 37:9, 29).
(4) Virgin companions of the bride (Psalm 45:14).
(5) Upright and blameless ones (Proverbs 2:21).
(6) Nations being taught at Jehovah’s house and walking in his paths (Isaiah 2:2-4).
(7) Nations that turn inquiringly to the Signal (Isaiah 11:10).
(8) Nations that come out of darkness (Isaiah 49:6, 9, 10).
(9) Nation not previously known (Isaiah 55:5).
(10) Foreigners ministering to Jehovah and loving his name (Isaiah 56:6).
(11) “Wealthiness of the sea,” “resources of the nations,” those that come ‘flying like a cloud of doves’ (Isaiah 60:5, 6, 8).
(12) Strangers that shepherd Israel’s flocks, foreigners that are its farmers and vinedressers (Isaiah 61:5).
(13) Those marked in forehead by man with secretary’s inkhorn (Ezekiel 9).
(14) Persons who call on the name of Jehovah and get away safe on his fear-inspiring day (Joel 2:32).
(15) Desirable things of all nations (Haggai 2:7).
(16) Nations that become “joined to Jehovah” (Zechariah 2:11).
(17) ‘Ten men who take hold of skirt of a Jew’ (Zechariah 8:23).
(18) Nations to whom King speaks peace (Zechariah 9:10).
(19) “Sheep” who do good to King’s brothers (Matthew 25:31-46).
(20) Repentant prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32).
(21) “Other sheep” who listen to the Fine Shepherd’s voice (John 10:16).
(22) Persons who exercise faith in Christ and “never die at all” (John 11:26).
(23) Creation that will be freed from enslavement to corruption and have glorious freedom of children of God (Romans 8:20, 21).
(24) Those of the world who gain everlasting life because they exercise faith in God’s Son (1 John 2:2; John 3:16, 36).
(25) “Great crowd” that serve day and night in Jehovah’s temple (Revelation 7:9-17).
(26) Anyone drinking life’s water and himself saying to others, “Come!” (Revelation 22:17).
The above are only the ones that are discussed or referred to in this book. |
Examining the Scriptures—2021
2020 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/brochures-and-booklets/examining-the-scriptures/examining-the-scriptures-2021 | May
Saturday, May 1
Instruct us about what we should do with the child.—Judg. 13:8.
What can parents do to help their children learn to love Jehovah? Pray for Jehovah’s help, as Manoah did. Also, teach by example. What you say is important; however, what you do will likely have a bigger impact on your child. We can be sure that Joseph and Mary set an excellent example for their children, including Jesus. Joseph worked hard to support his family. In addition, Joseph encouraged his household to appreciate spiritual things. (Deut. 4:9, 10) He took his family with him to Jerusalem “from year to year” to celebrate the Passover. (Luke 2:41, 42) Some fathers in his day may have viewed such a family trip as inconvenient, time-consuming, and expensive. Yet, Joseph obviously appreciated spiritual things and taught his children to do the same. Also, Mary knew the Scriptures well. By her words and actions, she no doubt taught her children to love God’s Word. w19.12 24-25 ¶9-12
Sunday, May 2
I am fleshly, sold under sin.—Rom. 7:14.
We see proof of Jehovah’s love for us in the way he responded to the problems that first arose within his earthly family. When Adam disobeyed his heavenly Father, he lost his place in Jehovah’s happy family, both for himself and for his descendants. (Rom. 5:12) Jehovah, however, stepped in to help. Jehovah punished Adam, but he did not leave Adam’s unborn offspring without hope. He immediately promised that obedient humans would be brought back into his family. (Gen. 3:15; Rom. 8:20, 21) Jehovah arranged for this on the basis of the ransom sacrifice of his beloved Son, Jesus. By giving his Son in our behalf, Jehovah proved how dearly he loves us. (John 3:16) He is the ideal Father. He hears our prayers and provides what we need, both materially and spiritually. He trains and supports us. He also has wonderful blessings in store for us. It warms our heart to know that our Father loves and cares for us! w20.02 6 ¶16-17; 7 ¶20
Monday, May 3
When anxieties overwhelmed me, you comforted and soothed me.—Ps. 94:19.
Have you ever been plagued by anxiety? Perhaps it was because of what others have said or done or because of what you have said or done. For example, you may have made a mistake, and you worry that Jehovah will never forgive you. To make matters worse, you may believe that because you are overwhelmed by anxiety, you must lack faith—you must be a bad person. Consider, though, a few Scriptural examples. Hannah, the prophet Samuel’s mother, was a woman of great faith. Yet, she was overcome by anxiety when a member of her household treated her badly. (1 Sam. 1:7) The apostle Paul had strong faith, but he was overwhelmed with “anxiety for all the congregations.” (2 Cor. 11:28) King David had such strong faith that Jehovah developed a special fondness for him. (Acts 13:22) Even so, David made mistakes that caused him to suffer bouts of crushing anxiety. (Ps. 38:4) Jehovah comforted and soothed each one of them. w20.02 20 ¶1-2
Tuesday, May 4
If anyone wants to come after me, let him disown himself.—Matt. 16:24.
When you make a dedication, you approach Jehovah in earnest prayer and tell him that you will use your life to serve him forever. When you dedicate yourself to God, you “disown” yourself. You now belong to Jehovah, which is a great privilege. (Rom. 14:8) You are telling him that from now on, you will be focused on serving him and not on pleasing yourself. Your dedication is a vow—a solemn promise made to God. Jehovah does not force us to make such a vow. But when we do, he expects us to fulfill it. (Ps. 116:12, 14) Your dedication is personal and private; it is between you and Jehovah. Baptism is public; it takes place in front of others, usually at an assembly or a convention. When you get baptized, you show others that you have already dedicated yourself to Jehovah. So your baptism lets others know that you love Jehovah your God with your whole heart, soul, mind, and strength and that you are determined to serve him forever.—Mark 12:30. w20.03 9 ¶4-5
Wednesday, May 5
Let no one lead you astray.—2 Thess. 2:3.
Satan blurs people’s view of Jehovah. After the death of Jesus’ apostles, some who claimed to be Christians began to spread false teachings. (Acts 20:29, 30) These apostates started to blur the identity of the only true God. For example, they stopped using the divine name in their copies of the Bible and preferred such expressions as “Lord.” By removing God’s personal name and replacing it with “Lord,” they made it difficult for a Bible reader to see how Jehovah is different from the other “lords” mentioned in the Scriptures. (1 Cor. 8:5) They used the same term, “Lord,” for Jehovah and for Jesus, making it difficult to understand that Jehovah and his Son are different individuals with distinct positions. (John 17:3) This confusion contributed to the development of the doctrine of the Trinity—a doctrine not taught in God’s Word. As a result, many see God as mysterious and believe that we cannot know him. What a lie!—Acts 17:27. w19.06 5 ¶11
Thursday, May 6
Fully accomplish your ministry.—2 Tim. 4:5.
One way to accomplish our ministry more fully is by improving our skills in the preaching work. (Prov. 1:5; 1 Tim. 4:13, 15) How privileged we are that Jehovah allows us to be his “fellow workers”! (1 Cor. 3:9) When you “make sure of the more important things” and focus on the Christian ministry, you will “serve Jehovah with rejoicing.” (Phil. 1:10; Ps. 100:2) As one of God’s ministers, you can be confident that he will give you the power you need to accomplish your ministry no matter what challenges or limitations you may face. (2 Cor. 4:1, 7; 6:4) Whether your circumstances allow you to have a small or a great share in witnessing, you can “have cause for rejoicing” when you are whole-souled in your ministry. (Gal. 6:4) When you fully accomplish your ministry, you show your love for Jehovah and for your fellow man. “By doing this you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.”—1 Tim. 4:16. w19.04 6 ¶15; 7 ¶17
Friday, May 7
Satan . . . is misleading the entire inhabited earth.—Rev. 12:9.
A major way in which Satan and the demons try to mislead people is through spiritism. Those who practice spiritism claim to know or control things that humans cannot normally know or control. For example, some claim to be able to know the future by using divination or astrology. Others may act as though they were speaking to those who have died. Some practice witchcraft or magic, and they may try to cast a spell on another person. A survey conducted in 18 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean found that about a third of the people surveyed believe in magic, witchcraft, or sorcery, and nearly as many believe that it is possible to communicate with spirits. Another survey was conducted in 18 countries in Africa. There, on average, more than half of the people surveyed say that they believe in witchcraft. Of course, wherever we live, we must be on guard against spiritism. w19.04 20-21 ¶3-4
Saturday, May 8
Watch that among you there is no one who is sexually immoral.—Heb. 12:16.
Jehovah God hates all forms of wickedness. (Ps. 5:4-6) How he must hate child sexual abuse—an especially repugnant wicked deed! In imitation of Jehovah, we as his Witnesses abhor child abuse and do not tolerate it in the Christian congregation. (Rom. 12:9) Any act of child abuse is absolutely opposed to “the law of the Christ”! (Gal. 6:2) All that Jesus taught both by word and by example is built on love and promotes justice. Governed by this law, true Christians treat children in a way that makes them feel safe and genuinely loved. But child abuse is a selfish, unjust act that makes a child feel unsafe and unloved. Sadly, true Christians have been affected by it. Why? “Wicked men and impostors” abound, and some may try to enter the congregation. (2 Tim. 3:13) In addition, some professing to be a part of the congregation have succumbed to perverted fleshly desires and have sexually abused children. w19.05 8 ¶1-3
Sunday, May 9
A righteous man’s supplication has a powerful effect.—Jas. 5:16.
A person who is very low in spirit may feel unworthy to approach Jehovah in prayer. If we want to comfort such a person, we may offer a prayer with that one, using his or her name. We may express to Jehovah how dear the downhearted one is to us and to the congregation. We may ask Jehovah to soothe and comfort that precious sheep of his. Prayers of that kind can be profoundly comforting. Think before you speak. Thoughtless words can hurt. Kind words can heal. (Prov. 12:18) So pray to Jehovah for help to find kind, comforting, soothing words. Keep in mind that no words are more powerful than Jehovah’s own expressions contained in the Bible. (Heb. 4:12) When we comfort others, we remind them of Jehovah’s love. And we must never forget that Jehovah is also a God of justice. No wicked act of abuse is really hidden. Jehovah sees all, and he will not let unrepentant wrongdoers go unpunished.—Num. 14:18. w19.05 18 ¶18; 19 ¶19, 21
Monday, May 10
Look out that no one takes you captive by means of the philosophy and empty deception according to human tradition.—Col. 2:8.
Satan wants to turn us against Jehovah. To achieve his goal, he tries to influence our thinking, in effect, to bring our mind into captivity and make it obedient to him. He tries to persuade or to deceive us into following him by appealing to our desires. (Col. 2:4) Are we really in serious danger of being misled by Satan? Yes, we are! Remember, Paul did not write the warning recorded at Colossians 2:8 to unbelievers. He wrote it to Christians who had been anointed with holy spirit. (Col. 1:2, 5) Those Christians were in danger back then, and we are in even greater danger today. (1 Cor. 10:12) Why? Satan has been confined to the vicinity of the earth, and he is focused on misleading God’s loyal servants. (Rev. 12:9, 12, 17) In addition, we are living during a time when wicked men and impostors are advancing “from bad to worse.”—2 Tim. 3:1, 13. w19.06 2 ¶1-2
Tuesday, May 11
It is enough! Now, O Jehovah, take my life away.—1 Ki. 19:4.
Elijah became afraid when Queen Jezebel threatened to kill him. So he fled to the area of Beer-sheba. He became so discouraged that “he asked that he might die.” What made him feel that way? Elijah was an imperfect man, “a man with feelings like ours.” (Jas. 5:17) Perhaps he felt overwhelmed by stress and physical exhaustion. It seems that Elijah thought that his efforts to promote pure worship had been futile, that nothing in Israel had improved, and that he was the only one still serving Jehovah. (1 Ki. 18:3, 4, 13; 19:10, 14) Jehovah understood Elijah’s feelings and did not scold him for expressing them. Instead, he helped Elijah regain strength. (1 Ki. 19:5-7) Later, Jehovah kindly adjusted Elijah’s thinking by demonstrating His awesome power. Jehovah then pointed out that he still had 7,000 in Israel who refused to worship Baal. (1 Ki. 19:11-18) In practical ways, Jehovah showed Elijah that He loved him. w19.06 15-16 ¶5-6
Wednesday, May 12
Be in subjection to the older men. . . . Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes the haughty ones.—1 Pet. 5:5.
Avoid being presumptuous. If we heed the direction we receive from trusted, responsible brothers, we will avoid problems. For example, in a land where the work is under ban, the responsible brothers had directed that the publishers not leave printed literature in the ministry. Yet, a pioneer brother in that location felt that he knew better and distributed literature. What was the result? Shortly after he and some others finished a period of informal witnessing, they were questioned by the police. Apparently, officials had followed them and were able to retrieve the literature they had distributed. What do we learn from this experience? We need to follow direction even if we feel that we know better. Jehovah always blesses us when we cooperate with the brothers whom he has appointed to take the lead among us.—Heb. 13:7, 17. w19.07 12 ¶17
Thursday, May 13
All those desiring to live with godly devotion in association with Christ Jesus will also be persecuted.—2 Tim. 3:12.
On the night before our Lord Jesus was put to death, he said that all who choose to be his disciples will be hated. (John 17:14) Up until now, faithful Christian Witnesses of Jehovah have been persecuted by those who oppose true worship. As the end of this system of things draws closer, we expect our enemies to oppose us even more. (Matt. 24:9) How can we prepare ourselves now to face persecution? We do not need to imagine all the things that could happen to us. If we did, we could be overwhelmed with fear and anxiety. We could allow imagined threats to defeat us even before any real test comes. (Prov. 12:25; 17:22) Fear is a powerful weapon that our “adversary, the Devil,” tries to use against us. (1 Pet. 5:8, 9) It is vital, then, that we strengthen our bond with Jehovah and do it now. w19.07 2 ¶1-3
Friday, May 14
Go, therefore, and make disciples of people of all the nations.—Matt. 28:19.
The apostles must have been full of anticipation as they gathered on a mountainside. Jesus had, after his resurrection, arranged for them to meet him at that location. (Matt. 28:16) That was perhaps the occasion when “he appeared to more than 500 brothers at one time.” (1 Cor. 15:6) Why had Jesus called his disciples to this meeting? To give them an exciting mission: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of people of all the nations.” (Matt. 28:18-20) The disciples who heard Jesus’ words became part of the first-century Christian congregation. The primary mission of that congregation was to make more disciples of Christ. Today, there are tens of thousands of true Christian congregations throughout the earth, and the primary mission of those congregations remains the same. w19.07 14 ¶1-2
Saturday, May 15
The earth remains forever.—Eccl. 1:4.
A traveling overseer in Norway says that people who are not inclined to talk about God are often willing to talk about world conditions. After greeting people, he says: “What do you think about our prospects for a better future? Does our best hope lie with politicians, scientists, or someone else?” After listening carefully, he reads or quotes a scripture that points to a bright future. Some are intrigued by the Bible’s promise that the earth will last forever and that good people will live on it eternally. (Ps. 37:29) We do well to use a variety of approaches with those we meet. Why? Because what attracts one may repel another. Some do not mind discussing God or the Bible, while others respond better to a more indirect approach. In either case, we should take the opportunity to speak to all sorts of people. (Rom. 1:14-16) Jehovah is the one who makes the truth grow in the hearts of those who are righteously inclined.—1 Cor. 3:6, 7. w19.07 22-23 ¶10-11
Sunday, May 16
If this is how God loved us, then we are also under obligation to love one another.—1 John 4:11.
God’s great love for us will move us to love our brothers. (1 John 4:20, 21) We might think that love for our brothers and sisters will come naturally. After all, we worship Jehovah and strive to imitate his fine qualities. We follow the example of Jesus, whose love was so great that he gave his life in our behalf. Yet, we may at times find it difficult to obey the commandment to love one another. Euodia and Syntyche were zealous sisters who had served “side by side” with the apostle Paul. Yet, they had perhaps allowed personal differences to cause a rift between them. In his letter to the congregation where those sisters served, Paul specifically named Euodia and Syntyche and gave them pointed admonition “to be of the same mind.” (Phil. 4:2, 3) Paul felt compelled to instruct the entire congregation: “Keep doing all things free from murmuring and arguments.”—Phil. 2:14. w19.08 9 ¶6-7
Monday, May 17
Go on carrying the burdens of one another.—Gal. 6:2.
Commendably, many congregations and individuals do what they can to enable those in full-time service to remain in their assignments. They do so by encouraging them to continue their work, by giving them financial or other material support, or by helping them to care for their family members back home. If those in full-time service receive a new assignment to your congregation, do not view the change of assignment as an indication that they somehow failed or were disciplined. Instead, help them to make the transition easier. Give them a warm welcome and commend them for the work they have done, even if poor health limits what they can do at present. Get to know them. Learn from their wealth of knowledge, training, and experience. Initially, those receiving a new assignment may need your help to obtain housing, transportation, work, and other basic necessities. w19.08 23-24 ¶12-13
Tuesday, May 18
I [will] sanctify myself through you before their eyes, O Gog.—Ezek. 38:16.
Gog will trust in his “arm of flesh”—his military might. (2 Chron. 32:8) We will trust in Jehovah our God—a stand that will seem foolish to the nations. After all, the gods of the once powerful Babylon the Great did not save her from “the wild beast” and its “ten horns”! (Rev. 17:16) So Gog will expect an easy victory. “Like clouds covering the land,” he will attack Jehovah’s people. But Gog will soon see that he has marched into a trap. Like Pharaoh at the Red Sea, Gog will learn that he is fighting against Jehovah. (Ex. 14:1-4; Ezek. 38:3, 4, 18, 21-23) Christ and his heavenly armies will defend God’s people and crush Gog’s hordes. (Rev. 19:11, 14, 15) But what about Jehovah’s chief enemy, Satan, whose lying propaganda led the nations to Armageddon? Jesus will hurl him and his demons into an abyss, where they will be locked away for a thousand years.—Rev. 20:1-3. w19.09 11-12 ¶14-15
Wednesday, May 19
Keep in expectation of it! For it will without fail come true.—Hab. 2:3.
We naturally long for the good things that Jehovah has promised. However, when the fulfillment of our expectations appears to be delayed, it may dampen our enthusiasm. We could even lose heart. (Prov. 13:12) This happened at the beginning of the 20th century. At that time, many anointed Christians expected to receive their heavenly reward in 1914. When that did not happen, how did faithful ones deal with their delayed expectations? They did not give up the race for life, because their primary focus was on faithfully doing God’s will, not on gaining their reward. They were determined to run the race with endurance. No doubt you long to see Jehovah vindicate his name and sovereignty and fulfill all his promises. Be assured that these things will happen in Jehovah’s due time. Until then, may we keep busy serving our God, never allowing postponed expectations to discourage us or slow us down. w19.08 4-5 ¶9-10
Thursday, May 20
I am mild-tempered and lowly in heart.—Matt. 11:29.
Ask yourself: ‘Do I have a reputation for being mild-tempered and humble? Do I willingly do menial jobs to serve others? Am I kind to others?’ Jesus created a peaceful, inviting environment for his fellow workers, and he enjoyed training them. (Luke 10:1, 19-21) He encouraged his disciples to ask questions, and he wanted to hear their opinions. (Matt. 16:13-16) Much like plants in a greenhouse, the disciples flourished. They absorbed the lessons that Jesus taught and produced fruit in the form of good works. Do you have a position of authority? If so, ask yourself: ‘What kind of environment do I create at work or at home? Do I promote peace? Do I encourage others to ask questions? And am I willing to hear their opinions?’ Never would we want to be like the Pharisees, who resented those who questioned them and persecuted those who expressed an opinion contrary to their own.—Mark 3:1-6; John 9:29-34. w19.09 20 ¶1; 23 ¶9-11
Friday, May 21
Whenever it is that they are saying, “Peace and security!” then sudden destruction is to be instantly on them.—1 Thess. 5:3.
World leaders sometimes use similar expressions when they talk about stabilizing relationships between nations. However, the announcement of “peace and security” that the Bible describes will be different. Why? When this happens, people may think that world leaders have succeeded in making the world a safer, more secure place. But in reality, “sudden destruction” will follow as the “great tribulation” unfolds. (Matt. 24:21) We do not know what will lead up to the declaration or how it will be made. And we do not know whether it will involve just one proclamation or a series of announcements. Whatever happens, we do know this: We should not be fooled into thinking that world leaders can actually achieve world peace. Rather, it is the signal that “Jehovah’s day” is about to begin!—1 Thess. 5:2. w19.10 8-9 ¶3-4
Saturday, May 22
During that time your people will escape.—Dan. 12:1.
The war of Armageddon will be the grand finale to the conclusion of this system of things. However, we have nothing to fear. Why? Because this will be God’s fight. (Prov. 1:33; Ezek. 38:18-20; Zech. 14:3) At Jehovah’s signal, Jesus Christ will lead the charge. He will have alongside him the resurrected anointed ones and myriads of angels. Together, they will war against Satan, his demons, and their earthly forces. (Rev. 6:2; 17:14) Jehovah has guaranteed: “No weapon formed against you will have any success.” (Isa. 54:17) “A great crowd” of Jehovah’s faithful worshippers will “come out of the great tribulation” alive! Then they will continue to render him sacred service. (Rev. 7:9, 13-17) How the Bible fills us with confidence about the future! We know that “Jehovah protects the faithful.” (Ps. 31:23) All who love and praise Jehovah will delight to see him vindicate his holy name.—Ezek. 38:23. w19.10 18-19 ¶17-18
Sunday, May 23
A true friend shows love at all times.—Prov. 17:17.
As we move deeper into “the last days,” we may face severe adversities. (2 Tim. 3:1) For example, after an election campaign, a country in western Africa was torn apart by social unrest and mob violence. For over six months, our brothers and sisters could not move about freely because they were in a combat zone. What helped them to cope with such hardships? Some found refuge in the homes of brothers living in a safer area. One brother reported: “In such a situation, I appreciated having friends around me. We were able to encourage one another.” When “the great tribulation” strikes, we will appreciate having good friends who love us. (Rev. 7:14) So it is urgent that we build strong bonds of friendship now. (1 Pet. 4:7, 8) Why? Because our enemies will try to divide us by means of lies and misinformation. They will try to turn us against one another. But their efforts will be wasted. They will be unable to break our bonds of love. w19.11 2 ¶1-2; 7 ¶19
Monday, May 24
You will be able to extinguish all the wicked one’s burning arrows.—Eph. 6:16.
Satan, “the father of the lie,” uses those under his control to spread lies about Jehovah and about our brothers and sisters. (John 8:44) For instance, apostates publish lies and distort facts about Jehovah’s organization on websites and through television and other media. Those lies are among Satan’s “burning arrows.” How should we respond if someone confronts us with such lies? We reject them! Why? Because we have faith in Jehovah and we trust our brothers. In fact, we avoid all contact with apostates. We do not allow anyone or anything, including curiosity, to draw us into arguing with them nor to weaken our faith. Have you resisted the urge to listen to and argue with apostates about the lies they spread? That is commendable. But we must remain on guard because Satan has other weapons that he tries to use against us. w19.11 15 ¶8; 16 ¶11
Tuesday, May 25
Jehovah examines the motives.—Prov. 16:2.
When making decisions, analyze your motives. Jehovah wants us to be honest in all things. So when we make decisions, we too want to be honest with ourselves and with others about our motives. If we were not completely honest, we would likely have difficulty sticking to the decision. For example, a young brother may decide to become a regular pioneer. After some time, however, he struggles to fulfill the hour requirement and he finds little joy in his ministry. He may have thought that his main motive for pioneering was his desire to please Jehovah. Could it be, though, that he was primarily motivated by a desire to please his parents or some person he admired? Consider the situation of a Bible student who decides to give up smoking. At first, he struggles, doing well for a week or two, but then he gives in to the urge to smoke. Finally, though, he is successful! His love for Jehovah and his desire to please Him have helped him to conquer the habit.—Col. 1:10; 3:23. w19.11 27 ¶9; 29 ¶10
Wednesday, May 26
Carry on as citizens in a manner worthy of the good news about the Christ.—Phil. 1:27, ftn.
The apostle Paul was confident that he would finish the race and reach his goal. As an anointed Christian, he looked forward to gaining “the prize of the upward call of God.” However, to reach that goal, he realized that he had to keep “pressing on.” (Phil. 3:14) Paul shared with the Philippians an interesting comparison to help them keep focused on their goal. Paul reminded the Philippians of their heavenly citizenship. (Phil. 3:20) Why did such citizenship matter? In those days, Roman citizenship was highly prized. However, anointed Christians had a much better citizenship, one that would bring far greater advantages. Roman citizenship paled in comparison! Anointed Christians today set a fine example as they press on toward their goal of everlasting life in heaven. w19.08 6 ¶14-15
Thursday, May 27
If the Son sets you free, you will be truly free.—John 8:36.
That freedom was certainly greater than what could be gained during Israel’s Jubilee year! (Lev. 25:8-12) For instance, a man set free during the Jubilee might again become a slave, and in any case, he would eventually die. On the day of Pentecost 33 C.E., Jehovah anointed with holy spirit the apostles and other faithful men and women. He adopted them as his sons so that in time they would be resurrected to heaven to reign with Jesus. (Rom. 8:2, 15-17) These were the first to benefit from the liberty that Jesus announced in the synagogue of Nazareth. (Luke 4:16-19, 21) Those men and women were no longer enslaved to false teachings and unscriptural practices of the Jewish religious leaders. God also considered them liberated from the deadly effects of sin. The symbolic Jubilee that began with the anointing of Christ’s followers in 33 C.E. will end at the conclusion of Jesus’ Thousand Year Reign. w19.12 11 ¶11-12
Friday, May 28
Bad associations spoil useful habits.—1 Cor. 15:33.
Parents, help your children to choose good associates. Both mother and father need to know whom their children are associating with and what they are doing. That includes knowing whom their children are communicating with through social media and on their mobile phone. Those associates can impact how the children think and act. Many parents exert themselves to arrange opportunities for their children to associate with those who set a good example in serving God. For instance, N’Déni and Bomine, a couple in Côte d’Ivoire, often invited the circuit overseer to stay in their home. N’Déni relates: “This had a very good effect on our son. He began pioneering and now serves as a substitute circuit overseer.” The earlier parents begin training their children, the better. (Prov. 22:6) Consider Timothy. Timothy’s mother, Eunice, and his grandmother Lois trained him “from infancy.”—2 Tim. 1:5; 3:15. w19.12 25 ¶14; 26 ¶16-17
Saturday, May 29
There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.—Prov. 18:24.
Be a trustworthy friend. For example, we not only promise to help our brothers and sisters in need but also do practical things to assist them. (Matt. 5:37; Luke 16:10) When those who need help know that they can depend on us, they are genuinely comforted. One sister explains why. She says, “You do not have the added stress of wondering whether the person who offered to help will be there on time to do what he promised.” Those coping with a trial or disappointment often find comfort by confiding in a trusted friend. But to be a trusted friend and confidant, we need to cultivate patience. When Zhanna’s husband left her, she found comfort in sharing her feelings with close friends. “They patiently listened to me,” she says, “although I probably said the same things over and over again.” You too can prove to be a good friend by being a good listener. w20.01 10-11 ¶9-11
Sunday, May 30
He will be filled with holy spirit even from before birth.—Luke 1:15.
Throughout the Bible, there are many examples of men of faith who received holy spirit; yet, they did not have the hope of living in heaven. David was guided by holy spirit. (1 Sam. 16:13) Holy spirit helped him to understand the deep things about Jehovah and also directed him to write parts of the Bible. (Mark 12:36) Even so, the apostle Peter said that David “did not ascend to the heavens.” (Acts 2:34) John the Baptist was “filled with holy spirit.” (Luke 1:13-16) Jesus said that there was no man greater than John, but then he said that John would not be included in the heavenly Kingdom. (Matt. 11:10, 11) Jehovah used his holy spirit to give these men the power to do amazing things, but he did not use that spirit to choose them to live in heaven. Does this mean that they were less faithful? No. It simply means that Jehovah will bring them back to life in Paradise on earth.—John 5:28, 29; Acts 24:15. w20.01 25 ¶15
Monday, May 31
We love, because he first loved us.—1 John 4:19.
Jehovah has invited us to join his family of worshippers. Our family is made up of those who have dedicated themselves to God and who exercise faith in the ransom sacrifice of his Son. Ours is a happy family. We enjoy a meaningful life now, and we rejoice in the prospect of life without end—whether in heaven or in Paradise on earth. Moved by love and at great cost to himself, Jehovah opened the way for us to be part of his family. (John 3:16) We were “bought with a price.” (1 Cor. 6:20) By means of the ransom, Jehovah made it possible for us to have a warm relationship with him. We have the honor of addressing the greatest Person in the universe as Father. And Jehovah is the ideal Father. Like one Bible writer, we might ask: “With what will I repay Jehovah for all the good he has done for me?” (Ps. 116:12) The answer is that we can never repay our heavenly Father. Still, we feel moved to love him. w20.02 8 ¶1-3 |
STUDY ARTICLE 1
“Do Not Be Anxious, for I Am Your God” | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2019240 | STUDY ARTICLE 1
“Do Not Be Anxious, for I Am Your God”
“Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be anxious, for I am your God. I will fortify you, yes, I will help you.”—ISA. 41:10.
SONG 7 Jehovah, Our Strength
PREVIEWa
1-2. (a) How did the message recorded at Isaiah 41:10 affect a sister named Yoshiko? (b) Jehovah had that message preserved for whose benefit?
A FAITHFUL Christian sister named Yoshiko received bad news. Her doctor said that she had only a few months to live. How did she react? Yoshiko recalled a favorite Bible verse, Isaiah 41:10. (Read.) She then calmly told her doctor that she was not afraid, because Jehovah was grasping her hand.b The comforting message found in that verse helped our dear sister to trust in Jehovah completely. That same verse can help us remain calm when dealing with severe trials. To understand how it can do so, first let us examine why God gave that message to Isaiah.
2 Initially, Jehovah had Isaiah record those words to comfort the Jews who would later be taken to Babylon as exiles. However, Jehovah had that message preserved for the benefit of not only the Jewish exiles but also all his people since that time. (Isa. 40:8; Rom. 15:4) Today, we live in “critical times hard to deal with,” and more than ever, we need the encouragement found in the book of Isaiah.—2 Tim. 3:1.
3. (a) What promises are found at Isaiah 41:10, the yeartext selected for 2019? (b) Why do we need the assurances that these promises give us?
3 In this article, we will focus on three of Jehovah’s faith-building promises recorded at Isaiah 41:10: (1) Jehovah will be with us, (2) he is our God, and (3) he will help us. We need these assurancesc because, like Yoshiko, we face trials in life. We must also deal with pressures from world conditions. Some of us are even enduring persecution from powerful governments. Let us consider the three assurances one at a time.
“I AM WITH YOU”
4. (a) What is the first assurance we will consider? (See also footnote.) (b) In what ways does Jehovah express his feelings for us? (c) How do God’s expressions affect you?
4 Jehovah first assures us with the words: “Do not be afraid, for I am with you.”d Jehovah shows that he is with us by giving us his full attention and his warm affection. Note how he expresses his tender and deep feelings for us. “You became precious in my eyes,” says Jehovah. “You were honored, and I have loved you.” (Isa. 43:4) No force in the universe can make Jehovah abandon his love for those who serve him; his loyalty to us is unshakable. (Isa. 54:10) His love and friendship fill us with courage. He will protect us today, just as he protected Abram (Abraham) his friend. Jehovah said to him: “Do not fear, Abram. I am a shield for you.”—Gen. 15:1.
With Jehovah’s help, we can pass through any floodlike and flamelike trials that we face (See paragraphs 5-6)e
5-6. (a) How do we know that Jehovah is interested in helping us with our personal trials? (b) What lesson can we learn from Yoshiko’s example?
5 We know that Jehovah is interested in helping us with our personal trials because he promises his people: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and through the rivers, they will not flood over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame singe you.” (Isa. 43:2) What do these words mean?
6 Jehovah does not promise to remove the challenges that make life difficult, but he will not allow “the rivers” of problems to drown us or “the flame” of trials to do us any permanent damage. He guarantees that he will be with us, helping us to “pass through” those challenges. What will Jehovah do? He will help quiet our fears so that we can maintain our integrity to him, even if we face death. (Isa. 41:13) Yoshiko, mentioned earlier, found that to be true. Her daughter says: “We were impressed with how calm Mom was. We truly saw that Jehovah gave her inner peace. Until the day she died, Mom spoke to nurses and patients about Jehovah and his promises.” What do we learn from Yoshiko’s example? When we trust in God’s promise “I will be with you,” we too will be courageous and strong as we endure trials.
“I AM YOUR GOD”
7-8. (a) What is the second assurance we will consider, and what does it mean? (b) Why did Jehovah say to the Jewish exiles: “Do not be anxious”? (c) What words found at Isaiah 46:3, 4 must have calmed the hearts of God’s people?
7 Note the second assurance recorded by Isaiah: “Do not be anxious, for I am your God.” What does this statement about anxiety mean? In this verse the original-language word for “be anxious” has the idea of having “to look over your shoulder in anticipation of an unknown threat” or “to look about as one does in a state of alarm.”
8 Why did Jehovah tell the Jews who would be exiles in Babylon not to “be anxious”? Because he knew that the inhabitants of that land would become afraid. What would cause that fear? Toward the end of the 70-year period of the Jewish exile, Babylon would be attacked by the mighty armies of Medo-Persia. Jehovah would use this army to free his people from captivity to Babylon. (Isa. 41:2-4) When the Babylonians and people of other nations living at the time knew that their enemy was approaching, they tried to maintain their courage by saying to one another: “Be strong.” They also made more idol gods, hoping that these would protect them. (Isa. 41:5-7) Meanwhile, Jehovah calmed the hearts of the Jewish exiles by saying: “You, O Israel, [unlike your neighbors] are my servant . . . Do not be anxious, for I am your God.” (Isa. 41:8-10) Note that Jehovah said: “I am your God.” With those words, Jehovah reassured his loyal worshippers that he had not forgotten them—he was still their God, and they were still his people. He told them: “I will carry you . . . and rescue you.” Those reassuring words no doubt strengthened the Jewish exiles.—Read Isaiah 46:3, 4.
9-10. Why is there no need for us to become afraid? Illustrate.
9 Now more than ever, people around us are anxious about worsening world conditions. Of course, we too are affected by those same problems. But there is no need for us to become afraid. Jehovah tells us: “I am your God.” Why is that statement a powerful reason for remaining calm?
10 Consider this illustration: Two passengers, Jim and Ben, are on an airplane that is being rocked by strong winds. As the plane lurches up and down, a voice comes over the loudspeaker: “Keep your seat belts fastened. We will be flying through turbulence for some time.” Jim becomes very worried. But then the pilot adds: “Do not be anxious. This is your pilot speaking.” At that point, Jim shakes his head, saying, “What kind of assurance is that?” He notices, though, that Ben does not look anxious at all. Jim asks him: “Why are you so calm?” Ben smiles and says: “Because I know this pilot very well. He is my father!” Then Ben says: “Let me tell you about my father. I’m sure that when you know him and his abilities, you too will be calm.”
11. What lessons can we learn from the illustration about the two passengers?
11 What lessons can we learn from this illustration? Like Ben, we are calm because we know our heavenly Father, Jehovah, very well. We know that he will guide us safely through the stormlike problems we face during the last days of this system. (Isa. 35:4) We trust in Jehovah, so we can remain calm while the rest of the world is gripped by fear. (Isa. 30:15) We also act like Ben when we share with our neighbors reasons for having confidence in God. Then they too can be sure that no matter what challenges they face, Jehovah will support them.
“I WILL FORTIFY YOU [AND] HELP YOU”
12. (a) What is the third assurance we will consider? (b) The reference to Jehovah’s “arm” reminds us of what fact?
12 Consider the third assurance that Isaiah recorded: “I will fortify you, yes, I will help you.” Isaiah had already described how Jehovah would fortify, or strengthen, his people, saying: “Jehovah will come with power, and his arm will rule for him.” (Isa. 40:10) The Bible often uses the word “arm” symbolically to signify power. So the statement that Jehovah’s “arm will rule” reminds us that Jehovah is a powerful King. He used his unbeatable strength to support and defend his servants in the past, and he continues to strengthen and protect those who trust in him today.—Deut. 1:30, 31; Isa. 43:10, ftn.
No weapon will be successful against Jehovah’s strong arm of protection (See paragraphs 12-16)f
13. (a) When especially does Jehovah keep his promise to fortify us? (b) What guarantee fills us with strength and confidence?
13 Especially when enemies persecute us, Jehovah keeps his promise: “I will fortify you.” In some parts of the world today, our enemies are trying hard to stop our preaching work or ban our organization. Even so, we are not overly anxious about such attacks. Jehovah has given us a guarantee that fills us with strength and confidence. He promises us: “No weapon formed against you will have any success.” (Isa. 54:17) That statement reminds us of three important facts.
14. Why are we not surprised that enemies of God attack us?
14 First, as Christ’s followers, we expect to be hated. (Matt. 10:22) Jesus foretold that his disciples would be severely persecuted during the last days. (Matt. 24:9; John 15:20) Second, Isaiah’s prophecy forewarns us that our enemies will do more than hate us; they will use various weapons against us. Those weapons have included subtle deception, blatant lies, and brutal persecution. (Matt. 5:11) Jehovah will not stop our enemies from using these weapons to wage war against us. (Eph. 6:12; Rev. 12:17) But we do not need to be afraid. Why not?
15-16. (a) What is the third fact we need to remember, and how does Isaiah 25:4, 5 support this? (b) How does Isaiah 41:11, 12 describe the outcome for those who fight against us?
15 Consider the third fact we need to remember. Jehovah said that “no weapon” used against us would “have any success.” Just as a wall protects us from the force of a destructive rainstorm, so Jehovah protects us against “the blast of the tyrants.” (Read Isaiah 25:4, 5.) Our enemies will never succeed in causing us any lasting harm.—Isa. 65:17.
16 Jehovah further fortifies our trust in him by describing in detail the outcome waiting for those who are “getting enraged against” us. (Read Isaiah 41:11, 12.) No matter how hard our enemies fight against us or how intense the war becomes, the outcome is the same: All enemies of God’s people “will be brought to nothing and perish.”
HOW WE DEEPEN OUR TRUST IN JEHOVAH
We can deepen our trust in Jehovah by regularly reading about him in the Bible (See paragraphs 17-18)g
17-18. (a) How can reading the Bible deepen our trust in God? Give an example. (b) How can meditating on the yeartext selected for 2019 help us?
17 We deepen our trust in Jehovah by getting to know him better. And the only way we can really know God well is by reading the Bible carefully and then meditating on what we read. The Bible contains a reliable record of how Jehovah protected his people in the past. That record gives us confidence that he will care for us now.
18 Consider an example of the beautiful word picture Isaiah uses to illustrate how Jehovah protects us. He refers to Jehovah as a shepherd and to God’s servants as lambs. Isaiah says of Jehovah: “With his arm he will gather together the lambs, and in his bosom he will carry them.” (Isa. 40:11) When we sense Jehovah’s strong arms wrapped around us, we feel protected and calm. To help us remain calm despite the problems we face, the faithful and discreet slave has selected Isaiah 41:10 as the yeartext for 2019, “Do not be anxious, for I am your God.” Meditate on those reassuring words. They will strengthen you as you face the challenges that lie ahead.
HOW DO THESE ASSURANCES FROM JEHOVAH STRENGTHEN YOU?
“I am with you.”
“I am your God.”
“I will fortify you [and] help you.”
SONG 38 He Will Make You Strong
a The yeartext selected for 2019 gives us three reasons why we can remain calm even when bad things happen in the world or in our personal life. This article will examine those reasons and help us to feel less anxious and more inclined to trust in Jehovah. Meditate on the yeartext. Memorize it if you can. It will strengthen you for the challenges that lie ahead.
b See The Watchtower, July 2016, p. 18.
c EXPRESSION EXPLAINED: An assurance is a truthful statement or a promise that something is definitely going to happen. The assurances that Jehovah gives us can make us feel less worried about the problems that may arise in our lives.
d The expression “Do not be afraid” is mentioned three times, at Isaiah 41:10, 13, and 14. The same verses frequently mention the word “I” (referring to Jehovah). Why did Jehovah inspire Isaiah to use “I” so frequently? To highlight an important fact—we can calm our fears only by trusting in Jehovah.
e PICTURE DESCRIPTION: Members of a family face trials at work, with their health, in the ministry, and at school.
f PICTURE DESCRIPTION: A meeting of Witnesses held in a private home is raided by the police, but the brothers and sisters do not panic.
g PICTURE DESCRIPTION: Regular Family Worship sessions strengthen us to endure. |
Greatest Man (gt)
1991 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/gt | Chapter 17
Teaching Nicodemus
WHILE he is attending the Passover of 30 C.E., Jesus performs remarkable signs, or miracles. As a result, many people put their faith in him. Nicodemus, a member of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish high court, is impressed and wants to learn more. So he visits Jesus during the darkness of night, probably fearing that his reputation with other Jewish leaders will be damaged if he is seen.
“Rabbi,” he says, “we know that you as a teacher have come from God; for no one can perform these signs that you perform unless God is with him.” In reply, Jesus tells Nicodemus that in order to enter the Kingdom of God, a person must be “born again.”
Yet, how can a person be born again? “He cannot enter into the womb of his mother a second time and be born, can he?” Nicodemus asks.
No, that is not what being born again means. “Unless anyone is born from water and spirit,” Jesus explains, “he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” When Jesus was baptized and holy spirit descended upon him, he was thus born “from water and spirit.” By the accompanying declaration from heaven, ‘This is my Son whom I have approved,’ God announced that he had brought forth a spiritual son having the prospect of entering into the heavenly Kingdom. Later, at Pentecost 33 C.E., other baptized ones will receive holy spirit and will thus also be born again as spiritual sons of God.
But the role of God’s special human Son is vital. “Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness,” Jesus tells Nicodemus, “so the Son of man must be lifted up, that everyone believing in him may have everlasting life.” Yes, as those Israelites bitten by poisonous snakes had to look at the copper serpent to be saved, so all humans need to exercise faith in God’s Son to be saved from their dying condition.
Stressing Jehovah’s loving role in this, Jesus next tells Nicodemus: “God loved the world so much that he gave his only-begotten Son, in order that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.” Thus, here in Jerusalem just six months after beginning his ministry, Jesus makes clear that he is Jehovah God’s means for saving humankind.
Jesus goes on to explain further to Nicodemus: “For God sent forth his Son into the world, not for him to judge the world,” that is, not to judge it adversely, or condemn it, sentencing the human race to destruction. Rather, as Jesus says, he was sent “for the world to be saved through him.”
Nicodemus has fearfully come to Jesus under cover of darkness. So it is interesting that Jesus closes his conversation with him by saying: “Now this is the basis for judgment, that the light [which Jesus personified in his life and teachings] has come into the world but men have loved the darkness rather than the light, for their works were wicked. For he that practices vile things hates the light and does not come to the light, in order that his works may not be reproved. But he that does what is true comes to the light, in order that his works may be made manifest as having been worked in harmony with God.” John 2:23–3:21; Matthew 3:16, 17; Acts 2:1-4; Numbers 21:9.
▪ What prompts Nicodemus’ visit, and why does he come at night?
▪ What does it mean to be “born again”?
▪ How does Jesus illustrate his role in our salvation?
▪ What does it mean that Jesus did not come to judge the world? |
ILLUSTRATED BIBLE STORIES
Ruth Is a Loyal Friend | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502015172 | ILLUSTRATED BIBLE STORIES
Ruth Is a Loyal Friend
Why did Ruth leave the only home she knew to move to another country?
Read the illustrated story online or from a printed PDF.
Download
1234 |
HOW YOUR DONATIONS ARE USED
Providing Relief to Victims of Disasters | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502500206 | HOW YOUR DONATIONS ARE USED
Providing Relief to Victims of Disasters
FEBRUARY 1, 2021
The year 2020 saw numerous natural disasters and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic worldwide. How have Jehovah’s Witnesses helped those affected?
During the 2020 service year,a the Coordinators’ Committee of the Governing Body approved spending 28 million dollarsb on disaster relief. This provided relief for victims of over 200 disasters—including the COVID-19 pandemic, multiple tropical cyclones, flooding in Africa, food shortages in Venezuela, and drought in Zimbabwe. The donated funds helped pay for food, water, shelter, clothing, and medical care, as well as basic supplies for cleaning, repairs, and reconstruction. Consider a few examples of the relief work.
COVID-19. All over the world, the pandemic affected our brothers and sisters physically, emotionally, and economically. To help them, over 800 Disaster Relief Committees (DRCs) were formed worldwide. These committees monitored our brothers’ needs and provided prompt reports that helped the Coordinators’ Committee know how best to direct the relief.
Throughout the year, DRCs helped many to obtain food, water, items for sanitation, and basic medicine. In some areas, DRCs also worked with local elders to help brothers access government aid.
Non-Witnesses have noticed our relief work. For example, Field Simwinga, the district commissioner for Nakonde, Zambia, told our brothers: “We are indebted for your timely provision of much-needed relief to the affected families.”
Food Shortages in Angola. The COVID-19 pandemic affected food supplies in Angola and raised prices significantly. Many of our brothers and sisters found it increasingly difficult to buy food.
Food kits were sent from Brazil to Angola
The Brazil branch was asked to help by sending kits of food to our Angolan brothers. To make the best use of relief funds, food and logistic options were carefully researched and the food was bought in bulk. Thus, each kit cost an average of only $22 to purchase and ship but contained almost 20 kilograms (44 lb) of food items such as rice, beans, and cooking oil. To date, 33,544 kits have been shipped—a total of 654 metric tons (721 U.S. tons). Combined with local items, these provisions helped feed more than 50,000 people!
How do our brothers feel about this relief? Alexandre, who lives in an isolated part of Angola, says: “I see this as evidence that Jehovah loves me and that I am not alone. I am valued by Jehovah’s organization!” Mariza, a single mother, says: “Jehovah heard my cry. I thank him and his organization!”
Brothers in Angola are thankful for their relief supplies
Drought Relief for Zimbabwe. During the 2020 service year, Zimbabwe faced a severe drought, leaving millions of people on the brink of starvation. Thousands of Witnesses in Zimbabwe lacked sufficient food.
Five DRCs were formed to help provide food for our brothers. Hundreds of publishers assisted by packaging food, loading supplies, or lending their vehicles.c During the 2020 service year, $691,561 was used to help feed more than 22,700 people!
Brothers in Zimbabwe receive food relief (before the pandemic)
In some cases, brothers had exhausted their own food supplies by the time the relief arrived. When the food arrived, our brothers praised Jehovah. Some even began singing Kingdom songs.
In one area, two widowed Witnesses attended a community meeting organized to discuss the food relief being offered by a nongovernmental organization (NGO). However, the meeting became increasingly political, so the sisters decided that they could not accept the conditions for receiving aid. As they left the meeting, they were mocked and told, “Don’t come looking for a meal from us!” However, just two weeks later, our brothers reached the area and provided our sisters with food relief—well before the NGO relief arrived!
“Jehovah has never failed his servants,” says Prisca
Disaster relief in Zimbabwe has also resulted in a good witness. For example, consider the experience of Prisca, who lives in a small village. Despite the difficulties brought on by the drought, Prisca devoted each Wednesday and Friday to the ministry, even during plowing season. People in her village ridiculed her, saying: “You are going to starve your family because of your preaching.” Prisca would reply: “Jehovah has never failed his servants.” Not long after that, she received relief supplies from our organization. This impressed some of her neighbors, who told Prisca: “God has never failed you, so we want to learn more about him.” Seven neighbors are now listening to congregation meetings that are broadcast on radio.
As we get closer to the end, we will continue to face natural disasters. (Matthew 24:3, 7) Your generous donations made via the different methods found on donate.jw.org are greatly appreciated. They provide timely and effective relief.
a The 2020 service year includes the months of September 2019 through August 2020.
b All dollar amounts in this article refer to U.S. dollars.
c Because of restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, our brothers had to obtain permits to deliver food. They also took precautions to reduce their own risk of exposure to the virus. |
Jews and Arabs Uniting | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101980015 | Jews and Arabs Uniting
What is responsible for this? Not political peace initiatives, but a government first proclaimed in the Middle East centuries ago.
Read about the modern-day participants in this peace movement and learn of its effects on the lives of people. Send for your copy of the 1980 Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Please send me, postpaid, the 1980 Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses; I enclose 50c (U.S.). |
STUDY ARTICLE 4
Why We Attend the Memorial | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2022245 | STUDY ARTICLE 4
Why We Attend the Memorial
“Keep doing this in remembrance of me.”—LUKE 22:19.
SONG 20 You Gave Your Precious Son
PREVIEWa
1-2. (a) When especially do we remember a loved one who has died? (b) What did Jesus institute the night before he died?
NO MATTER how long it has been since our loved ones have died, we still remember them. The anniversary of their death usually brings especially vivid memories to mind.
2 Each year, we are among the millions worldwide who gather on the anniversary of the death of someone we dearly love—Jesus Christ. (1 Pet. 1:8) We come together to remember the one who gave his life as a ransom to save us from sin and death. (Matt. 20:28) In fact, Jesus wanted his followers to remember his death. The night before he died, he instituted a special evening meal and commanded: “Keep doing this in remembrance of me.”b—Luke 22:19.
3. What will we discuss in this article?
3 A small number of those attending the Memorial of Christ’s death cherish a heavenly hope. But many millions who have an earthly hope are also present. In this article, we will consider reasons why both groups are eager to attend the Memorial each year. We will also examine how we benefit from attending. Let us start by considering some reasons why the anointed attend.
WHY ANOINTED ONES ATTEND
4. Why do anointed ones partake of the bread and the wine at the Memorial?
4 Each year, anointed ones look forward to attending the Memorial as partakers. Why do they appropriately partake of the bread and the wine? To answer that, consider what happened on the final night of Jesus’ earthly life. After the Passover meal, Jesus instituted what has come to be known as the Lord’s Evening Meal. He passed the bread and the wine to his 11 faithful apostles and told them to eat and drink. Jesus spoke to them about two covenants, or agreements—the new covenant and the Kingdom covenant.c (Luke 22:19, 20, 28-30) These covenants opened up the way for those apostles and a limited number of others to become kings and priests in heaven. (Rev. 5:10; 14:1) Only the anointed remnant,d who are in these two covenants, may partake of the bread and the wine at the Memorial.
5. What do the anointed recognize about the hope they have been given?
5 Here is another reason why the anointed are eager to attend the Memorial: This observance gives them an opportunity to contemplate their hope. Jehovah has given them a remarkable hope—to enjoy immortal and incorruptible life in heaven, to serve alongside the glorified Jesus Christ and the rest of the 144,000 and, above all, to be in the very presence of Jehovah God! (1 Cor. 15:51-53; 1 John 3:2) The anointed recognize that they have been invited to enjoy such privileges in heaven. But to be admitted to heaven, they must remain faithful until their death. (2 Tim. 4:7, 8) It brings the anointed great joy to reflect on their heavenly hope. (Titus 2:13) What about the “other sheep”? (John 10:16) What are some reasons why they attend the Memorial?
WHY THE OTHER SHEEP ATTEND
6. Why do the other sheep attend the Memorial each year?
6 The other sheep attend the Memorial, not as partakers, but as observers. In 1938, those with the earthly hope were for the first time specifically invited to attend the Memorial. The Watchtower of March 1, 1938, stated: “It will be entirely right and proper for the [other sheep] to be present at such meeting and observe what is done. . . . It should be and is a time of rejoicing for them also.” Like invited guests who are happy to observe a wedding ceremony, the other sheep are happy to be present as observers at the Memorial.
7. Why do the other sheep look forward to the Memorial discourse?
7 The other sheep too contemplate their hope. They look forward to the Memorial discourse, for much of it focuses on what Christ and his 144,000 corulers will do for faithful humans during the Thousand Year Reign. Under the leadership of their King Jesus Christ, those heavenly rulers will help transform the earth into a paradise and lift obedient humankind to perfection. How thrilling it is for the millions of observers at the Memorial to imagine the future fulfillment of Bible prophecies, such as those found at Isaiah 35:5, 6; 65:21-23; and Revelation 21:3, 4. By picturing themselves and their loved ones in that new world, they strengthen their hope for the future and their determination never to stop serving Jehovah.—Matt. 24:13; Gal. 6:9.
8. What is another reason why the other sheep attend the Memorial?
8 Consider another reason why the other sheep attend the Memorial. They want to show their love and support for the anointed. God’s Word foretold that a close bond would exist between the anointed and those with the earthly hope. How so? Let us discuss a few examples.
9. What does the prophecy recorded at Zechariah 8:23 indicate about the way the other sheep feel about the anointed?
9 Read Zechariah 8:23. This prophecy paints a touching picture of the way the other sheep feel about their anointed brothers and sisters. The expressions “a Jew” and “you people” refer to the same group—the anointed remnant. (Rom. 2:28, 29) The “ten men out of all the languages of the nations” represent the other sheep. They “take firm hold of”—loyally attach themselves to—the anointed, joining them in pure worship. Naturally, then, on the night of the Memorial, the other sheep show their close attachment to the anointed by being present with them.
10. What has Jehovah done in fulfillment of the prophecy found at Ezekiel 37:15-19, 24, 25?
10 Read Ezekiel 37:15-19, 24, 25. In fulfillment of this prophecy, Jehovah has brought the anointed and the other sheep together in an unbreakable bond of unity. The prophecy mentions two sticks. Those with the heavenly hope are like the stick “for Judah” (the tribe from which the kings of Israel were chosen), and those with the earthly hope are like the stick “of Ephraim.”e Jehovah would unite the two groups so that they would become “one stick.” This means that they serve unitedly under their one King, Christ Jesus. Each year, the anointed and the other sheep attend the Memorial, not as two separate groups, but as “one flock” under “one shepherd.”—John 10:16.
11. How do “the sheep” mentioned at Matthew 25:31-36, 40 primarily show their support of Christ’s brothers?
11 Read Matthew 25:31-36, 40. “The sheep” in this parable represent righteous ones in the time of the end who have the earthly hope—that is, the other sheep. They loyally support the remaining ones of Christ’s spirit-anointed brothers primarily by helping them to fulfill an enormous responsibility—the worldwide preaching and disciple-making work.—Matt. 24:14; 28:19, 20.
12-13. What are some further ways in which the other sheep show their support for Christ’s brothers?
12 Every year in the weeks leading up to the Memorial, the other sheep show their support for Christ’s brothers by sharing fully in a global campaign to invite interested ones to the Memorial. (See the box “Are You Planning Ahead for the Memorial Season?”) They also help make all the necessary arrangements so that the Memorial can be held in every congregation worldwide, even though most congregations do not have any partakers in attendance. The other sheep are thrilled to support Christ’s brothers in such ways. These sheep know that Jesus views what they do for his anointed brothers as if they were doing it for him personally.—Matt. 25:37-40.
13 What are some additional reasons why all of us, regardless of our hope, attend the Memorial?
Are You Planning Ahead for the Memorial Season?
PRIOR TO THE MEMORIAL
Share as fully as possible in the campaign to invite others to attend this important event. Make a list of those whom you want to invite.
Consider prayerfully whether you can enroll as an auxiliary pioneer during the Memorial season.
Review articles or other published information that deepens your appreciation for the Memorial, the ransom, and the love that Jehovah and Jesus have shown us. For example, you can review chapters 14 and 23 of the book Draw Close to Jehovah and chapter 17 of the book “Come Be My Follower.”
Keep up with the Memorial Bible reading schedule found in Examining the Scriptures Daily. Take time to meditate on Bible accounts about Jesus’ last days on earth, his death, and his resurrection.
ON THE EVENING OF THE MEMORIAL
Arrive early so that you can warmly welcome visitors and inactive ones who come to the event.
Pay close attention to the discourse, and follow along in your Bible when the speaker reads and explains the scriptures.
After the program concludes, try to start a conversation with a visitor and answer any questions he may have. If he shows interest, make sure that you or someone else can follow up on it.
AFTER THE MEMORIAL
Visit any who showed interest, and offer a Bible study in the Enjoy Life Forever! brochure.
WHY WE ALL ATTEND
14. How have Jehovah and Jesus shown great love for us?
14 We are thankful for the love that Jehovah and Jesus have shown us. Jehovah has demonstrated his love for us in many ways, but one way stands out above all others. Our God made his greatest expression of unselfish love by sending his precious Son to suffer and die for us. (John 3:16) We recognize that Jesus too showed great love by willingly giving his life for us. (John 15:13) We can never repay Jehovah and Jesus for the love they have shown us. But we can show our thankfulness by how we live our life each day. (Col. 3:15) And we attend the Memorial so that we may remember their love for us as well as show our love for them.
15. Why do both the anointed and the other sheep highly value the gift of the ransom?
15 We highly value the gift of the ransom. (Matt. 20:28) The anointed treasure the ransom, which makes their wonderful hope possible. Because of their faith in Christ’s sacrifice, Jehovah has declared them righteous and has adopted them as his children. (Rom. 5:1; 8:15-17, 23) The other sheep too are thankful for the ransom. On the basis of their faith in Christ’s shed blood, they have a clean standing before God, can render him sacred service, and have the hope of coming “out of the great tribulation.” (Rev. 7:13-15) One way that both the anointed and the other sheep show their gratitude for the ransom is by being present at the Memorial each year.
16. What is another reason why we attend the Memorial?
16 Another reason why we attend the Memorial is that we want to obey Jesus. Regardless of our hope for the future, we take personally the command that Jesus gave on the night he instituted the Memorial: “Keep doing this in remembrance of me.”—1 Cor. 11:23, 24.
HOW WE ALL BENEFIT FROM ATTENDING
17. How does the Memorial help us draw closer to Jehovah?
17 We draw closer to Jehovah. (Jas. 4:8) As we have learned, the Memorial gives us an opportunity to think about the hope Jehovah has given us and to meditate on the great love he has shown us. (Jer. 29:11; 1 John 4:8-10) When we reflect on our sure hope for the future and on God’s unfailing love for us, we deepen our own love for Jehovah and strengthen our bond with him.—Rom. 8:38, 39.
18. What does meditating on Jesus’ example move us to do?
18 We are moved to imitate Jesus’ example. (1 Pet. 2:21) In the days leading up to the Memorial, we focus on Bible accounts about Jesus’ final week on earth, his death, and his resurrection. Then on the evening of the Memorial, the discourse reminds us of Jesus’ love for us. (Eph. 5:2; 1 John 3:16) As we read about Jesus’ self-sacrificing example and meditate on it, we feel compelled to “go on walking just as that one walked.”—1 John 2:6.
19. How can we remain in God’s love?
19 We are even more determined to remain in God’s love. (Jude 20, 21) We remain in God’s love by doing all we can to obey him, sanctify his name, and bring joy to his heart. (Prov. 27:11; Matt. 6:9; 1 John 5:3) The Memorial observance moves us to be more determined to live each day in a way that says to Jehovah, ‘I want to remain in your love forever!’
20. What sound reasons do we have for attending the Memorial?
20 Whether our hope is to live forever in heaven or on earth, we have sound reasons to attend the Memorial. Each year when we gather together on that date, we remember the death of someone we love, Jesus Christ. Above all, we remember the greatest act of love—the love that Jehovah showed us by giving his Son as a ransom. This year, the Memorial will be held on the evening of Friday, April 15, 2022. We love Jehovah and his Son, so on the anniversary of Jesus’ death, nothing could be more important to us than being present at the Memorial.
REGARDING THE MEMORIAL, . . .
what are some reasons why the anointed attend?
what are some reasons why the other sheep attend?
how do we all benefit from attending?
SONG 16 Praise Jah for His Son, the Anointed
a Whether our hope is to live in heaven or on a paradise earth, we look forward to attending the Memorial each year. This article will discuss the sound Scriptural reasons why we attend and how we benefit from doing so.
b These words have been rendered “Do this in memory of me” (Today’s English Version) and “Do this as a memorial of me” (The Jerusalem Bible).
c For more information about the new covenant and the Kingdom covenant, see the article “You Will Become ‘a Kingdom of Priests’” in the October 15, 2014, issue of The Watchtower, pp. 15-17.
d EXPRESSION EXPLAINED: The expression anointed remnant refers to the remaining anointed Christians still alive on earth.
e For more information about the prophecy of the two sticks found in Ezekiel chapter 37, see Pure Worship of Jehovah—Restored At Last!, pp. 130-135, pars. 3-17. |
Devastating Deluge Down Under | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101991012 | Devastating Deluge Down Under
IMAGINE a flood inundating an area the size of Great Britain, France, and Germany combined. Well, that is what happened last year in Queensland, Australia. Charleville, a town near the middle of the disaster area, had to be evacuated. Three thousand inhabitants huddled in tents on high ground at the local airport. Some had to be rescued from rooftops by helicopter.
A small band of 35 people associated with the Charleville Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses sought refuge with a Witness whose property was located on high ground six miles [10 km] outside of town. This became a base of operations to help those left homeless.
Swiftly, the Witnesses began to mobilize assistance. In Dalby, 340 miles [550 km] away, a team of volunteers was formed to clean the flooded homes. In Roma, 170 miles [270 km] away, the Witnesses collected food and other emergency supplies, such as blankets and clothing. After an aerial reconnaissance to assess the damage, the volunteers streamed in—over a hundred strong.
They described the disaster site as “beyond imagination.” Two inches [5 cm] of slime and silt covered everything. Smashed furniture was scattered around the rooms, carpets were ruined, electrical appliances submerged, cars overturned. The stench of decaying food, saturated wood, and debris was everywhere.
The volunteers set to work. By Saturday, April 28, just over a week after the flood, the homes and yards of the Charleville Witnesses were looking clean and respectable. More than a clean-up was needed, though. The volunteer teams set about restoring power to the homes and repairing cars and household appliances. Carpetlayers put down new carpets; cabinetmakers built and installed new cabinets; carpenters, painters, and plumbers made repairs.
The upshot: Two weeks after the flood, all the Witnesses were back in their renovated homes. The volunteers did not, however, limit their efforts to helping fellow Witnesses. When one team cleaned the home of a Catholic, he repeatedly expressed his amazement.
In Brisbane the Witnesses were praised over the radio for their work during the flood. And in Charleville, many townspeople were astonished to see how fast the Witnesses acted. One man who had formerly opposed them was overheard to say: “And we have the hide [the nerve] to turn them away from the door.” |
Reasoning (rs)
1989 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/books/reasoning-rs | Dates
Definition: Dates mark the time at which events occur. The Bible expresses dates in relation to the lifetime of individuals, the period during which certain rulers were in office, or other notable events. It contains the only complete chronology reaching back to the time of Adam’s creation. Bible chronology also pinpointed in advance the time when certain important events in the fulfillment of God’s purpose would take place. The Gregorian calendar, which is now popular in much of the world, did not come into use until 1582. In secular sources there is disagreement on dates given for events in ancient history. However, certain key dates, such as 539 B.C.E. for the fall of Babylon, and hence 537 B.C.E. for the Jews’ return from captivity, are well established. (Ezra 1:1-3) Using such dates as starting points, it is possible to express in terms of current calendars the dates for ancient Biblical events.
Have scientists proved that humans have been on earth for millions of years, not merely some thousands of years as the Bible indicates?
The dating methods used by scientists are built on assumptions that can be useful but that often lead to very contradictory results. So, dates given by them are constantly being revised.
A report in New Scientist of March 18, 1982, reads: “‘I am staggered to believe that as little as a year ago I made the statements that I made.’ So said Richard Leakey, before the elegant audience of a Royal Institution evening discourse last Friday. He had come to reveal that the conventional wisdom, which he had so recently espoused in his BBC television series The Making of Mankind, was ‘probably wrong in a number of crucial areas.’ In particular, he now sees man’s oldest ancestor as being considerably younger than the 15-20 million years he plumped for on television.”—P. 695.
From time to time, new methods of dating are developed. How reliable are these? Regarding one known as thermoluminescence, The New Encyclopædia Britannica (1976, Macropædia, Vol. 5, p. 509) says: “Hope rather than accomplishment mainly characterizes the status of thermoluminescence dating at the present time.” Also, Science (August 28, 1981, p. 1003) reports that a skeleton showing an age of 70,000 years by amino acid racemization gave only 8,300 or 9,000 years by radioactive dating.
Popular Science (November 1979, p. 81) reports that physicist Robert Gentry “believes that all of the dates determined by radioactive decay may be off—not only by a few years, but by orders of magnitude.” The article points out that his findings would lead to the conclusion that “man, instead of having walked the earth for 3.6 million years, may have been around for only a few thousand.”
It should be noted, however, that scientists believe that the age of the earth itself is much greater than the age of man. The Bible does not disagree with that.
Were the ages of people before the Flood, as stated in the Bible, measured according to the same kind of years that we use?
If it was reasoned that the “years” must be equivalent to our months, then Enosh became a father when he was seven years of age, and Kenan was only five years old when he fathered a son. (Gen. 5:9, 12) That is, clearly, impossible.
Detailed chronology provided in connection with the Flood indicates the length of months and years used at that time. Comparison of Genesis 7:11, 24 and 8:3, 4 shows that five months (from the 17th of the 2nd month to the 17th of the 7th month) was equal to 150 days, or five 30-day months. Specific reference is made to a “tenth month” and to further periods beyond that before coming to the next year. (Gen. 8:5, 6, 8, 10, 12-14) Evidently, their years were made up of twelve 30-day months. At a very early time, the strictly lunar calendar was adjusted periodically to the length of the solar year, as indicated by Israel’s holding seasonal festivals of ingathering on specified dates. In that way the festivals continued to fall in the appropriate seasons.—Lev. 23:39.
Keep in mind that God made humans to live forever. It was Adam’s sin that led to death. (Gen. 2:17; 3:17-19; Rom. 5:12) Those who lived before the Flood were closer to perfection than we are today, so they lived much longer. But each one died within a thousand years.
Why do Jehovah’s Witnesses say that God’s Kingdom was established in 1914?
Two lines of evidence point to that year: (1) Bible chronology and (2) the events since 1914 in fulfillment of prophecy. Here we will consider the chronology. For fulfillment of prophecy, see the main heading “Last Days.”
Read Daniel 4:1-17. Verses 20-37 show that this prophecy had a fulfillment upon Nebuchadnezzar. But it also has a larger fulfillment. How do we know that? Verses 3 and 17 show that the dream that God gave to King Nebuchadnezzar deals with the Kingdom of God and God’s promise to give it “to the one whom he wants to . . . even the lowliest one of mankind.” The entire Bible shows that Jehovah’s purpose is for his own Son, Jesus Christ, to rule as His representative over mankind. (Ps. 2:1-8; Dan. 7:13, 14; 1 Cor. 15:23-25; Rev. 11:15; 12:10) The Bible’s description of Jesus shows that he was indeed “the lowliest one of mankind.” (Phil. 2:7, 8; Matt. 11:28-30) The prophetic dream, then, points to the time when Jehovah would give rulership over mankind to his own Son.
What was to happen in the meantime? Rulership over mankind, as represented by the tree and its rootstock, would have “the heart of a beast.” (Dan. 4:16) The history of mankind would be dominated by governments that displayed the characteristics of wild beasts. In modern times, the bear is commonly used to represent Russia; the eagle, the United States; the lion, Britain; the dragon, China. The Bible also uses wild beasts as symbols of world governments and of the entire global system of human rulership under the influence of Satan. (Dan. 7:2-8, 17, 23; 8:20-22; Rev. 13:1, 2) As Jesus showed in his prophecy pointing to the conclusion of the system of things, Jerusalem would be “trampled on by the nations, until the appointed times of the nations” were fulfilled. (Luke 21:24) “Jerusalem” represented the Kingdom of God because its kings were said to sit on “the throne of the kingship of Jehovah.” (1 Chron. 28:4, 5; Matt. 5:34, 35) So, the Gentile governments, represented by wild beasts, would ‘trample’ on the right of God’s Kingdom to direct human affairs and would themselves hold sway under Satan’s control.—Compare Luke 4:5, 6.
For how long would such governments be permitted to exercise this control before Jehovah gave the Kingdom to Jesus Christ? Daniel 4:16 says “seven times” (“seven years,” AT and Mo, also JB footnote on verse 13). The Bible shows that in calculating prophetic time, a day is counted as a year. (Ezek. 4:6; Num. 14:34) How many “days,” then, are involved? Revelation 11:2, 3 clearly states that 42 months (3 1/2 years) in that prophecy are counted as 1,260 days. Seven years would be twice that, or 2,520 days. Applying the “day for a year” rule would result in 2,520 years.
When did the counting of the “seven times” begin? After Zedekiah, the last king in the typical Kingdom of God, was removed from the throne in Jerusalem by the Babylonians. (Ezek. 21:25-27) Finally, by early October of 607 B.C.E. the last vestige of Jewish sovereignty was gone. By that time the Jewish governor, Gedaliah, who had been left in charge by the Babylonians, had been assassinated, and the remaining Jews had fled to Egypt. (Jeremiah, chapters 40-43) Reliable Bible chronology indicates that this took place 70 years before 537 B.C.E., the year in which the Jews returned from captivity; that is, it took place by early October of 607 B.C.E. (Jer. 29:10; Dan. 9:2; for further details, see the book “Let Your Kingdom Come,” pages 186-189.)
How, then, is the time calculated down to 1914? Counting 2,520 years from early October of 607 B.C.E. brings us to early October of 1914 C.E., as shown on the chart.
CALCULATING THE “SEVEN TIMES”
“Seven times” = 7 X 360 = 2,520 years
A Biblical “time,” or year = 12 X 30 days = 360. (Rev. 11:2, 3; 12:6, 14)
In the fulfillment of the “seven times” each day equals one year. (Ezek. 4:6; Num. 14:34)
Early October, 607 B.C.E., to December 31, 607 B.C.E.= 1/4 year
January 1, 606 B.C.E., to December 31, 1 B.C.E. = 606 years
January 1, 1 C.E., to December 31, 1913 = 1,913 years
January 1, 1914, to early October, 1914 = 3/4 year
Total: 2,520 years
What happened at that time? Jehovah entrusted rulership over mankind to his own Son, Jesus Christ, glorified in the heavens.—Dan. 7:13, 14.
Then why is there still so much wickedness on earth? After Christ was enthroned, Satan and his demons were hurled out of heaven and down to the earth. (Rev. 12:12) Christ as King did not immediately proceed to destroy all who refused to acknowledge Jehovah’s sovereignty and himself as the Messiah. Instead, as he had foretold, a global preaching work was to be done. (Matt. 24:14) As King he would direct a dividing of peoples of all nations, those proving to be righteous being granted the prospect of everlasting life, and the wicked being consigned to everlasting cutting-off in death. (Matt. 25:31-46) In the meantime, the very difficult conditions foretold for “the last days” would prevail. As shown under the heading “Last Days,” those events have been clearly in evidence since 1914. Before the last members of the generation that was alive in 1914 will have passed off the scene, all the things foretold will occur, including the “great tribulation” in which the present wicked world will end.—Matt. 24:21, 22, 34.
When will the end of this wicked world come?
Jesus answered: “Concerning that day and hour nobody knows, neither the angels of the heavens nor the Son, but only the Father.” However, he also stated: “Truly I say to you that this generation [that was alive when “the sign” of “the last days” began its fulfillment] will by no means pass away until all these things occur.”—Matt. 24:36, 34.
Also, after telling of events that would follow the establishment of the Kingdom in the hands of Jesus Christ in 1914, Revelation 12:12 adds: “Be glad, you heavens and you who reside in them! Woe for the earth and for the sea, because the Devil has come down to you, having great anger, knowing he has a short period of time.” |
Examining the Scriptures—2022
2021 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/brochures-and-booklets/examining-the-scriptures/examining-the-scriptures-2022 | February
Tuesday, February 1
With humility consider others superior to you.—Phil. 2:3.
Get to know your brothers and sisters better. Talk with them before and after meetings, work with them in the ministry, and if possible, invite them for a meal. When you do, you may learn that a sister who seems unfriendly is actually shy, a brother whom you thought to be materialistic is hospitable, or a family that often comes late to the meetings is enduring opposition. (Job 6:29) Of course, we should not become “meddlers in other people’s affairs.” (1 Tim. 5:13) However, it is good to know something about our brothers and sisters and the circumstances that have shaped their personality. When you get to know the background of a fellow Christian whom you find irritating, you are more likely to feel empathy for that one. It takes effort to get to know your brothers better. Still, when you follow the Bible’s counsel to open your heart wide, you imitate Jehovah, who loves “all sorts of people.”—1 Tim. 2:3, 4; 2 Cor. 6:11-13. w20.04 16-17 ¶10-12
Wednesday, February 2
No one has love greater than this, that someone should surrender his life in behalf of his friends.—John 15:13.
On the night before he died, Jesus reminded his disciples to love one another. He knew that self-sacrificing love would help them to stay united and to endure the world’s hatred. Consider the example of the congregation in Thessalonica. From the time it was formed, its members were persecuted. Yet, the brothers and sisters there became examples of integrity and love. (1 Thess. 1:3, 6, 7) Paul encouraged them to continue showing love, even “in fuller measure.” (1 Thess. 4:9, 10) Love would move them to console the depressed and support the weak. (1 Thess. 5:14) They followed Paul’s instructions, for in his second letter, written about a year later, Paul could say to them: “The love of each and every one of you is increasing toward one another.” (2 Thess. 1:3-5) Their love helped them to endure hardship and persecution. w21.03 22 ¶11
Thursday, February 3
Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.—Heb. 12:1.
If we want to receive the prize of everlasting life, we must follow the Christian course, or way of life. (Acts 20:24; 1 Pet. 2:21) However, Satan and those who follow his example want us to make a different choice; they want us to “continue running with them.” (1 Pet. 4:4) They ridicule the course of life we follow and claim that the path they are on is better, that it leads to freedom. But their claim is false. (2 Pet. 2:19) How important it is that we choose the right road to follow! Satan wants all of us to stop running on the cramped road that is “leading off into life” and cross over to the spacious road that most people in this world are on. That road is popular and is easier to travel. But it is “leading off into destruction.” (Matt. 7:13, 14) To remain on the right road and not be sidetracked, we must trust in Jehovah and listen to him. w20.04 26 ¶1; 27 ¶5, 7
Friday, February 4
I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions . . . be made . . . so that we may go on leading a calm and quiet life with complete godly devotion.—1 Tim. 2:1, 2.
In recent years, Russia and its allies have also entered into “the land of the Decoration.” (Dan. 11:41) How? In 2017, this current king of the north banned the work of Jehovah’s people and threw some of our brothers and sisters into prison. He also banned our publications, including the New World Translation. Further, he confiscated our branch office in Russia as well as Kingdom Halls and Assembly Halls. After these actions, in 2018 the Governing Body identified Russia and its allies as the king of the north. However, even when Jehovah’s people are severely persecuted, they refuse to participate in any action to subvert or change human governments. Rather, they follow the Bible’s counsel to pray for “all those who are in high positions,” especially when such ones are making decisions that could affect freedom of worship. w20.05 14 ¶9
Saturday, February 5
Pay constant attention to yourself and to your teaching.—1 Tim. 4:16.
Parents, if your children are to be convinced that they have the truth, they need to have a personal relationship with God and to be convinced of the truthfulness of what the Bible teaches. If you are to teach your children the truth about God, you must set the example by being good students of the Bible. You must take time to meditate on what you learn. Then you will be able to teach your children to do the same. You need to teach your children to use our Bible study tools, just as you teach one of your Bible students. In doing so, you will help your children to appreciate Jehovah and the channel he uses to dispense spiritual food—“the faithful and discreet slave.” (Matt. 24:45-47) Do not settle for teaching your children only basic Bible truths. Help them develop strong faith by teaching them about “the deep things of God” to an extent that is appropriate to their age and ability.—1 Cor. 2:10. w20.07 11 ¶10, 12-13
Sunday, February 6
Jehovah detests a devious person, but His close friendship is with the upright.—Prov. 3:32.
How many imperfect humans today enjoy a close friendship with Jehovah? There are millions. This friendship is possible because of their faith in Jesus’ ransom sacrifice. On that basis, Jehovah kindly allows us to dedicate ourselves to him and get baptized. When we take these important steps, we join the millions of dedicated, baptized Christians who are enjoying “close friendship” with the greatest Person in the universe! How can we show that we treasure God’s friendship? Like Abraham and Job, who remained faithful to God for well over a hundred years, we must remain faithful—no matter how long we have been serving Jehovah in this old system. Like Daniel, we must value our friendship with God more than life. (Dan. 6:7, 10, 16, 22) With Jehovah’s help, we can endure any trials we face and thus keep our close bond with him.—Phil. 4:13. w20.05 27 ¶5-6
Monday, February 7
Unify my heart.—Ps. 86:11.
King David saw another man’s wife bathing. He knew Jehovah’s standard: “You must not desire your fellow man’s wife.” (Ex. 20:17) Yet, evidently he kept looking. His heart became divided between his desire for the woman, Bath-sheba, and his desire to please Jehovah. Although David had long loved and feared Jehovah, he gave in to his selfish desire. In that instance, David pursued a very bad course. He brought reproach on Jehovah’s name. David also brought terrible harm to innocent people, including his own family. (2 Sam. 11:1-5, 14-17; 12:7-12) Jehovah disciplined David, and he recovered. (2 Sam. 12:13; Ps. 51:2-4, 17) David remembered the trouble and misery that resulted when he let his heart become divided. His words recorded at Psalm 86:11 may also be rendered: “Give me an undivided heart.” Did Jehovah help David make his heart whole, or undivided? Yes, for Jehovah’s Word later refers to David as a man whose “heart was . . . complete with Jehovah his God.”—1 Ki. 11:4; 15:3. w20.06 11 ¶12-13
Tuesday, February 8
I kept drawing them, with the cords of love.—Hos. 11:4.
The Bible describes Jehovah’s love for his people as a cord, or rope. In what sense is God’s love like a rope? Consider this illustration: Imagine that you are drowning in rough seas and someone throws you a life vest. Surely you would appreciate the help because that may ease your struggle to stay afloat. But a life vest will not be enough to keep you alive. The water is cold, and you will not survive unless you can reach a lifeboat. You need someone to throw you a rope and to pull you toward the lifeboat. As Jehovah said in the words of today’s text, he lovingly “kept drawing” the Israelites who had gone astray. God feels the same way today about those who have stopped serving him and who are drowning in problems and anxiety. He wants them to know that he loves them, and he wants to draw them to him. And Jehovah can use you to express his love to them. It is important to assure inactive ones that Jehovah loves them and that we love them too. w20.06 27 ¶12-13
Wednesday, February 9
Happy is the man who keeps on enduring trial.—Jas. 1:12.
When the disciple Stephen was murdered, many Christians fled from Jerusalem and “were scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria,” eventually as far away as Cyprus and Antioch. (Acts 7:58–8:1; 11:19) We can only imagine the hardship the disciples had to endure. Still, they eagerly preached the good news wherever they went, and congregations were established throughout the Roman Empire. (1 Pet. 1:1) But far more turbulent times lay ahead for the early Christians. For instance, about the year 50 C.E., Roman Emperor Claudius ordered all Jews to leave Rome. So Jews who had become Christians were forced to abandon their homes and relocate elsewhere. (Acts 18:1-3) About 61 C.E., the apostle Paul wrote that his fellow Christians had been publicly reproached, put in prison, and plundered. (Heb. 10:32-34) And just like other people, Christians had to endure poverty and sickness.—Rom. 15:26; Phil. 2:25-27. w21.02 26-27 ¶2-4
Thursday, February 10
The Devil has come down to you, having great anger, knowing that he has a short period of time.—Rev. 12:12.
There is nothing that Satan or those influenced by him can do that will destabilize a Christian who has strengthened his own faith. (2 John 8, 9) We must expect to be hated by the world. (1 John 3:13) John reminds us that “the whole world is lying in the power of the wicked one.” (1 John 5:19) As this system draws to an end, Satan’s anger grows hotter. He uses more than subtle forms of attack, such as the lure of immorality or the lies of apostates. He will also use brute force. Satan knows that he has only a short period of time left to try to stop our preaching work or to break our faith. It is no surprise, then, that our work is restricted or banned in a number of countries. Even so, our brothers and sisters in those lands are enduring. They are proving that no matter what the wicked one throws at us, we can be victorious! w20.07 24 ¶12-13
Friday, February 11
The gift God gives is everlasting life by Christ Jesus our Lord.—Rom. 6:23.
Jehovah intended for the human family to enjoy everlasting life on the beautiful planet that he had created. But when Adam and Eve rebelled against their loving Father, sin and death cast a shadow over the earth. (Rom. 5:12) How did Jehovah respond? Immediately, he stated how he would rescue mankind. (Gen. 3:15) Jehovah purposed to provide a ransom that would make it possible for Adam and Eve’s children to be freed from sin and death. He could then allow each person to choose to serve Him and to receive everlasting life. (John 3:16; 1 Cor. 15:21, 22) When Jehovah through his Son resurrects countless millions, we may assume that not all of them will come back to life at the same time. Why not? Because an explosion in the earth’s population would likely cause chaos. And Jehovah never does anything in a disorganized, chaotic way. He knows that for peace to last, order must be maintained.—1 Cor. 14:33. w20.08 14 ¶3; 15 ¶5
Saturday, February 12
Pay constant attention to yourself and to your teaching.—1 Tim. 4:16.
A student should understand that the purpose of the Bible study is to help him to start serving Jehovah as one of His Witnesses. Step-by-step, a sincere Bible student can reach the goal of baptism! First, the student comes to know and love Jehovah and put faith in Him. (John 3:16; 17:3) The student then forms a relationship with Jehovah and begins to bond with the congregation. (Heb. 10:24, 25; Jas. 4:8) Eventually, the student rejects bad practices and repents of his sins. (Acts 3:19) Meanwhile, his faith impels him to share the truth with others. (2 Cor. 4:13) Then he dedicates himself to Jehovah and symbolizes his dedication by getting baptized. (1 Pet. 3:21; 4:2) And what a joyous day that is for everyone! As the student takes each step toward his goal, be generous with sincere commendation and encourage him to continue his progress in the right direction. w20.10 17-18 ¶12-13
Sunday, February 13
If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I am no part of the body,” that does not make it no part of the body.—1 Cor. 12:15.
If you compare yourself with others in the congregation, you may be blinded to your own value. Some in the congregation may be gifted teachers, good organizers, or skilled shepherds. Perhaps you feel that you do not have those gifts to the same degree. This shows that you are humble and modest. (Phil. 2:3) But be careful. If you constantly compare yourself with those who have outstanding talents, you will be disappointed in yourself. You may even feel, as the apostle Paul mentioned, that you have no place in the congregation at all. Jehovah gave some first-century Christians miraculous gifts of the holy spirit, but not all Christians received the same gifts. (1 Cor. 12:4-11) Yet, each Christian was valuable. Today, we do not have the miraculous gifts of the holy spirit. But the principle still applies. We may not all have the same talents, but all of us are valuable to Jehovah. w20.08 23 ¶13-15
Monday, February 14
Jehovah is on my side; I will not be afraid.—Ps. 118:6.
When you pray for courage and boldness, Jehovah will answer your prayers and never abandon you. (Acts 4:29, 31) He is always there to give you support. Think about how he has helped you overcome challenges and given you the strength to make changes in your lifestyle. Certainly the One who led his people through the Red Sea can help you to be a disciple of Christ. (Ex. 14:13) Maintain the same conviction as did the psalmist who said the words of today’s text. Jehovah can also help new publishers to be courageous. Note the experience of a sister named Tomoyo. When she started to preach from house to house, the first householder she met shouted: “I don’t want anything to do with Jehovah’s Witnesses!” and slammed the door. Tomoyo courageously told her companion: “Did you hear that? I didn’t have to say a word, and she recognized me as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. I’m so happy!” Tomoyo now serves as a regular pioneer. w20.09 6 ¶13-14
Tuesday, February 15
Asa did what was good and right in the eyes of Jehovah his God.—2 Chron. 14:2.
Asa told the people that it was Jehovah who had “given [them] rest all around.” (2 Chron. 14:6, 7) Asa did not feel that this period of peace was a time to relax. On the contrary, he set out to build cities, walls, towers, and gates. He told the people of Judah: “The land is still at our disposal.” What did Asa mean? He meant that the people could move about freely in their God-given land and build without opposition from enemies. He urged the people to take advantage of this time of peace. Asa also used the time of peace to strengthen his military force. (2 Chron. 14:8) Does this mean that he did not trust in Jehovah? No. Rather, Asa knew that it was his duty as king to prepare the people for the troubles they might face in the future. Asa knew that the period of peace that Judah enjoyed likely would not last indefinitely, and this proved true. w20.09 15 ¶4-5
Wednesday, February 16
Do not go beyond the things that are written.—1 Cor. 4:6.
With good intentions, an elder might make rules that he hopes will protect God’s sheep. However, there are significant differences between the role of an elder and the role of a family head. For instance, Jehovah has assigned the elders to act as judges, and he has given them the responsibility of removing unrepentant sinners from the congregation. (1 Cor. 5:11-13) On the other hand, Jehovah has given family heads some authority that he has not given to elders. For instance, he has authorized a family head both to make and to enforce rules for his family. (Rom. 7:2) For example, a family head has the right to decide at what time his children should arrive home at night. He also has the authority to discipline his children if they fail to obey that rule. (Eph. 6:1) Of course, a loving family head consults with his wife before making rules in the household; after all, the two of them are “one flesh.”—Matt. 19:6. w21.02 16-18 ¶10-13
Thursday, February 17
[Wisdom] is more precious than corals; nothing you desire can compare to it.—Prov. 3:15.
One reason why the truths found in God’s Word are precious is that Jehovah reveals them only to humble ones who are “rightly disposed.” (Acts 13:48) Such individuals accept the channel he uses to dispense those truths today. (Matt. 11:25; 24:45) We cannot learn these truths on our own, and nothing else is anywhere near as valuable. (Prov. 3:13) Jehovah has also entrusted us with the privilege of teaching others the truth about him and his purposes. (Matt. 24:14) The message we bear is invaluable because it helps people become part of Jehovah’s family and gives them the opportunity to gain everlasting life. (1 Tim. 4:16) Whether our personal share in the ministry is large or small, we are supporting the most important work being done at this time. (1 Tim. 2:3, 4) What an honor it is to be God’s fellow workers!—1 Cor. 3:9. w20.09 26-27 ¶4-5
Friday, February 18
We found brothers and were urged to remain with them.—Acts 28:14.
During his journey to Rome, the apostle Paul time and again received help that Jehovah provided by means of his fellow believers. For example, two faithful companions of Paul, Aristarchus and Luke, decided to travel with him to Rome. They willingly risked their lives to be with Paul, although it does not appear that either of them had received a personal assurance from Jesus that they would reach Rome. Only later, during the rough voyage, did they learn that their lives would be spared. When they reached the port city of Sidon, Julius permitted Paul “to go to his friends and enjoy their care.” (Acts 27:1-3) And later, in the city of Puteoli, Paul and his companions “found brothers and were urged to remain with them for seven days.” While the Christians in those places cared for the needs of Paul and his companions, Paul no doubt brought great joy to his hosts by sharing upbuilding experiences.—Compare Acts 15:2, 3. w20.11 15-16 ¶15-17
Saturday, February 19
Godly devotion . . . holds promise of the life now and the life that is to come.—1 Tim. 4:8.
Parents, teach your children in word and action that you love Jehovah deeply. Realize that the greatest gift that you can give them is the opportunity to love Jehovah. And one of the most valuable lessons that you can teach them is how to keep a good spiritual routine of study, prayer, meetings, and participation in the ministry. (1 Tim. 6:6) Of course, you must give your children the material things they need. (1 Tim. 5:8) But remember that it will be your children’s close relationship with Jehovah, not their material possessions, that will help them to survive the end of this old system and make it into God’s new world. (Ezek. 7:19) How heartwarming it is to see so many Christian parents who are making good spiritual choices for their families! Children who are raised in such families often continue with the good habits they learned, and they have no regrets!—Prov. 10:22. w20.10 28-29 ¶10-11
Sunday, February 20
You will not have this happen to you at all.—Matt. 16:22.
On occasion, the apostle Peter said or did things that he later regretted. For instance, when Jesus told his apostles that he would suffer and die, Peter rebuked him, saying the above. (Matt. 16:21-23) Jesus then corrected Peter. When a mob came to arrest Jesus, Peter acted rashly, cutting off the ear of a slave of the high priest. (John 18:10, 11) Again, Jesus corrected the apostle. In addition, Peter had boasted that while the other apostles might stumble in connection with Christ, he would never do so! (Matt. 26:33) But that overconfidence gave way to fear of man, and Peter denied his Master three times. Deeply discouraged, Peter “went outside and wept bitterly.” (Matt. 26:69-75) He must have wondered if Jesus could ever forgive him. However, Peter did not allow himself to be overwhelmed by discouragement. After stumbling, he recovered, and we later find him with the other apostles.—John 21:1-3; Acts 1:15, 16. w20.12 20 ¶17-18
Monday, February 21
You husbands, . . . continue dwelling with them according to knowledge. Assign them honor as to a weaker vessel, the feminine one.—1 Pet. 3:7.
A family head can show humility in many ways. For example, he does not expect perfection from his wife and children. He listens to and considers the opinions of family members, even when they do not agree with his. In addition, a humble husband is willing to do household tasks, even if in his community these tasks are viewed as women’s work. That can be a challenge. Why? “Where I come from,” says a sister named Rachel, “if a husband helps his wife wash dishes or clean the home, his neighbors and relatives will question if he is a ‘real man.’ They will think that he cannot control his wife.” If that attitude is common where you live, remember that Jesus washed the feet of his disciples, even though it was viewed as a slave’s job. A good family head is concerned, not about making himself look good, but about making his wife and children feel good. w21.02 2 ¶3; 4 ¶11
Tuesday, February 22
One thing is certain: Forgetting the things behind and stretching forward to the things ahead, I am pressing on toward the goal.—Phil. 3:13, 14.
Good memories are a blessing from Jehovah; but no matter how good our life was in the past, our future in the new world will be better. Others may hurt us, but when we choose to forgive, we are able to move forward. Excessive guilt can prevent us from serving Jehovah with joy. But, like the apostle Paul, we need to believe that Jehovah has forgiven us. (1 Tim. 1:12-15) We have the prospect of living forever. And in God’s new world, we will not be plagued with regrets about the past. Regarding that time, the Bible says: “The former things will not be called to mind.” (Isa. 65:17) Just think: Some of us have grown old in Jehovah’s service, but in the new world, we will be young again. (Job 33:25) Let us, therefore, be determined not to live in the past. Rather, let us look to the future and live for what is ahead! w20.11 24 ¶4; 29 ¶18-19
Wednesday, February 23
I saw . . . a great crowd . . . And they keep shouting with a loud voice, saying: “Salvation we owe to our God . . . and to the Lamb.”—Rev. 7:9, 10.
What lies ahead? During the great tribulation, Jehovah will save us in two amazing ways. First, he will save his loyal servants during the time when he causes the kings of the earth to destroy Babylon the Great, the empire of false religion. (Rev. 17:16-18; 18:2, 4) Then, he will save his people when he annihilates the remaining elements of Satan’s world at Armageddon. (Rev. 16:14, 16) When we remain close to Jehovah, Satan can do us no lasting harm. In fact, he is the one who will suffer permanent harm. (Rom. 16:20) So put on the complete suit of armor—and leave it on! Do not try to fight the battle on your own. Support your brothers and sisters. And follow Jehovah’s direction. If you do, you can be confident that your loving heavenly Father will strengthen you and protect you.—Isa. 41:10. w21.03 30 ¶16-17
Thursday, February 24
Your strength will be in keeping calm and showing trust.—Isa. 30:15.
How might we show our trust in Jehovah? By applying the direction that Jehovah gives. The Bible contains many accounts that highlight the value of keeping calm and putting our trust in Jehovah. As you study these accounts, notice what helped God’s servants to remain calm in the face of extreme opposition. For example, when the Jewish supreme court ordered the apostles to stop preaching, they were not intimidated. Instead, they boldly declared: “We must obey God as ruler rather than men.” (Acts 5:29) Even after being flogged, the apostles did not panic. Why? Because they knew that Jehovah was on their side. He was pleased with them. Thus, they continued preaching the good news. (Acts 5:40-42) Likewise, when the disciple Stephen faced death, he remained so peaceful and serene that his face looked “like an angel’s face.” (Acts 6:12-15) Why? Because he was assured of Jehovah’s approval. w21.01 4 ¶10-11
Friday, February 25
They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.—Rev. 7:14.
This signifies that they have a clean conscience and a righteous standing before Jehovah. (Isa. 1:18) They are dedicated, baptized Christians, who exercise strong faith in Jesus’ sacrifice and who have a relationship with Jehovah. (John 3:36; 1 Pet. 3:21) Thus, they qualify to stand before God’s throne to render him “sacred service day and night” in the earthly courtyard of his spiritual temple. (Rev. 7:15) Even now, they zealously perform the greater part of the Kingdom-preaching and disciple-making work, putting the interests of God’s Kingdom ahead of their own. (Matt. 6:33; 24:14; 28:19, 20) The great crowd who come out of the great tribulation are assured of God’s continued care, for “the One seated on the throne will spread his tent over them.” The promise that the other sheep have longed to see fulfilled will be fully realized: “[God] will wipe out every tear from their eyes.”—Rev. 21:3, 4. w21.01 16 ¶9-10
Saturday, February 26
I will pour out some of my spirit on every sort of flesh, and your sons and your daughters will prophesy.—Acts 2:17.
We love being part of Jehovah’s family, and we do our best to respect the headship arrangement that Jehovah has put in place. The Bible indicates that Jehovah values women as well as men. For instance, it reveals that in the first century, Jehovah gave holy spirit to women as well as to men and empowered them to perform miraculous works, such as speaking in different languages. (Acts 2:1-4, 15-18) They both have been anointed by holy spirit with the prospect of ruling with Christ. (Gal. 3:26-29) Women as well as men will receive the reward of everlasting life on earth. (Rev. 7:9, 10, 13-15) And both men and women are assigned to preach and teach the good news. (Matt. 28:19, 20) In fact, the book of Acts recognizes the work of a sister named Priscilla who, along with her husband, Aquila, helped to explain the truth more correctly to the well-educated man Apollos.—Acts 18:24-26. w21.02 14 ¶1; 15 ¶4
Sunday, February 27
Pay attention to yourselves and to all the flock . . . Shepherd the congregation of God.—Acts 20:28.
Elders, you have the weighty responsibility of helping publishers to be effective in their ministry, including their Bible study work. If someone is shy about conducting a Bible study in your presence, offer to conduct the study. Elders can do a great deal to encourage and to motivate the teachers to persevere. (1 Thess. 5:11) Even if we do not presently conduct a Bible study, we can still help someone to grow spiritually. Without taking over, we can with our well-prepared comments support the teacher during a study session. We can befriend the students when they come to the Kingdom Hall, and we can serve as good examples for them. And elders can encourage the students by making time for them and the teachers by training and commending them. Really, what greater joy could we have than knowing that we played even a small part in helping someone come to love and serve our Father, Jehovah? w21.03 13 ¶18-19
Monday, February 28
Close friendship with Jehovah belongs to those who fear him.—Ps. 25:14.
David proved to be responsible and reliable. For example, as a young man, he diligently looked after his father’s sheep. That turned out to be a dangerous assignment. David later explained to King Saul: “Your servant became a shepherd of his father’s flock, and a lion came, also a bear, and each carried off a sheep from the flock. I went out after it and struck it down and rescued it from its mouth.” (1 Sam. 17:34, 35) David felt responsible for the welfare of the sheep. Young brothers can imitate David by diligently fulfilling any assignment they are given. Young David developed a close, personal relationship with Jehovah. That relationship was more important than David’s courage or his skill with a stringed instrument. Jehovah was not only David’s God but also his Friend—his close Friend. Young brothers, the most important thing that you can do is to strengthen your relationship with your heavenly Father. w21.03 3 ¶4-5 |
BIBLE VERSES EXPLAINED
Romans 15:13—“May the God of Hope Fill You With All Joy and Peace” | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502300125 | BIBLE VERSES EXPLAINED
Romans 15:13—“May the God of Hope Fill You With All Joy and Peace”
“May the God who gives hope fill you with all joy and peace by your trusting in him, so that you may abound in hope with power of holy spirit.”—Romans 15:13, New World Translation.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”—Romans 15:13, New International Version.
Meaning of Romans 15:13
With these words, the apostle Paul expressed his wish that God fill his fellow believers with “joy and peace.” These good qualities are instructioned to the hope that God gives and the power of holy spirit.
We learn about the hope God gives in his written Word, the Bible. According to Romans 15:4, “all the things that were written beforehand [in the Bible] were written for our instruction, so that through our endurance and through the comfort from the Scriptures we might have hope.” The Bible reveals God’s promise to solve the problems that can make life seem hopeless today, such as poverty, injustice, sickness, and death. (Revelation 21:4) God will use Jesus Christ to fulfill these promises, and on this we can rest our hope for a better future.—Romans 15:12.
We can “abound in,” or “overflow with,” this God-given hope only when we trust in God. The more we learn about him, the more confident we will become that he is completely trustworthy. (Isaiah 46:10; Titus 1:2) Thanks to the reliable hope God gives, a person can be filled with joy and peace, even while he experiences difficulties.—Romans 12:12.
Peace, joy, and hope are also instructioned to “holy spirit,” which is God’s power in action.a God uses holy spirit to fulfill his promises, and this gives hope. This spirit can also produce good qualities in people, such as joy and peace.—Galatians 5:22.
Context of Romans 15:13
The book of Romans is actually a letter to Christians who lived in the city of Rome. Some of those Christians were of Jewish descent, while others were not. Paul encouraged all of them to work at being united in thought and action despite their differences in background and culture.—Romans 15:6.
Paul reminded Christians in Rome that God had long ago foretold a time when people of all nations would unitedly praise Him. To support that fact, Paul quoted from the Hebrew Scripturesb four times. (Romans 15:9-12) His point was this: Along with the Jews, people of all nations can benefit from Christ’s ministry. Both groups share the same God-given hope. So all in the congregation in Rome, no matter their background, were to “welcome one another,” that is, receive each other kindly or hospitably.—Romans 15:7.
a For more information, read the article “What Is the Holy Spirit?”
b The Hebrew Scriptures are sometimes called the Old Testament.
Read Romans chapter 15 along with explanatory footnotes, cross-references, and a map. |
Revelation Climax (re)
1988 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/re | Chapter 10
Abhorring the “Deep Things of Satan”
THYATIRA
1. How was Thyatira situated in relation to other congregations, and in what kind of religious environment?
ABOUT 40 miles southeast of Bergama (Pergamum) is the thriving Turkish town of Akhisar. Some 1,900 years ago, this town was the site of Thyatira. A traveling overseer could readily reach Thyatira by an inland road from Pergamum and then move in a circuit to the remaining congregations of Revelation chapter 3—Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. Unlike Pergamum, Thyatira does not seem to have been an important center of emperor worship, but it did have shrines and temples dedicated to pagan gods. Thyatira was noteworthy as a commercial trading center.
2, 3. (a) What was recorded earlier about a Thyatiran who became a Christian? (b) Of what significance is it to the Christians in Thyatira that Jesus is “the Son of God” and that he has “eyes like a fiery flame”?
2 When Paul was preaching in Macedonia, he met up with a Thyatiran woman named Lydia, a seller of purple. Lydia and all her household gladly accepted the message Paul was preaching and showed extraordinary hospitality. (Acts 16:14, 15) She became the first Thyatiran on record to accept Christianity. In course of time, the city itself came to have a congregation of Christians. Jesus directs his longest message there: “And to the angel of the congregation in Thyatira write: These are the things that the Son of God says, he who has his eyes like a fiery flame, and his feet are like fine copper.”—Revelation 2:18.
3 This is the only time the expression “Son of God” appears in Revelation, although in other places Jesus does refer to Jehovah as “my Father.” (Revelation 2:27; 3:5, 21) The use of the input here likely reminds the Thyatiran Christians of Jesus’ intimacy with Jehovah. This Son “has his eyes like a fiery flame”—a warning to the Christians in Thyatira that his judgment will blaze against anything that he sees to be defiling in the congregation. By referring for a second time to his glowing, copperlike feet, he emphasizes his own shining example of faithfulness while walking this earth. The Christians in Thyatira no doubt heeded his counsel, and so must we today!—1 Peter 2:21.
4, 5. (a) Why could Jesus commend the Christians in Thyatira? (b) How is the congregation in Thyatira typical of the congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses today?
4 Happily, Jesus can commend those in Thyatira. He says: “I know your deeds, and your love and faith and ministry and endurance, and that your deeds of late are more than those formerly.” (Revelation 2:19) Unlike the Ephesians, the anointed Christians there have not lost their first love for Jehovah. Their faith is strong. Furthermore, their deeds are more than those formerly, and like the three preceding congregations, the Christians in Thyatira are enduring. How typical of the almost 100,000 congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses throughout the earth today! Love for Jehovah shines through, as a spirit of zeal in the ministry permeates the organization, stimulating young and old. An increasing number expend themselves as pioneers, thus using wisely the yet remaining time to proclaim the glorious hope of God’s incoming Kingdom!—Matthew 24:14; Mark 13:10.
5 For decades, many faithful ones, both of the anointed remnant and of the great crowd, have been showing exemplary endurance in God’s service, while the world around them has been plunging deeper and deeper into a hopeless gloom. But let us be of good courage! Revelation confirms the testimony of God’s earlier prophets. “The great day of Jehovah is near. It is near, and there is a hurrying of it very much.”—Zephaniah 1:14; Joel 2:1; Habakkuk 2:3; Revelation 7:9; 22:12, 13.
“That Woman Jezebel”
6. (a) Despite praiseworthy features, what problem does Jesus note in the congregation in Thyatira that needs immediate attention? (b) Who was Jezebel, and did she have a valid claim to being a prophetess?
6 Jesus’ fiery eyes have pierced further. He notes something that needs immediate attention. “Nevertheless,” he tells the Christians in Thyatira, “I do hold this against you, that you tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, and she teaches and misleads my slaves to commit fornication and to eat things sacrificed to idols.” (Revelation 2:20) In the tenth century B.C.E., Queen Jezebel, the Baal-worshipping wife of King Ahab of Israel, had become notorious for her murderous, adulterous, dominating ways. Jehu, as Jehovah’s anointed one, had her executed. (1 Kings 16:31; 18:4; 21:1-16; 2 Kings 9:1-7, 22, 30, 33) The idolatrous Jezebel had no claim to being a prophetess. She was not like Miriam and Deborah, who served as faithful prophetesses in Israel. (Exodus 15:20, 21; Judges 4:4; 5:1-31) And Jehovah’s spirit did not move her to prophesy as it moved the aged Anna and the four daughters of Philip the evangelizer.—Luke 2:36-38; Acts 21:9.
7. (a) By mentioning “that woman Jezebel,” Jesus is evidently referring to what influence? (b) How may some associated women have justified their self-willed course?
7 Plainly, then, “that woman Jezebel” who claims to be a prophetess in Thyatira is a sham. She has no backing of God’s spirit. Who is she? Likely, she is a woman or group of women acting as a shameless corrupting influence in the congregation. Some associated women may have been involving congregation members in immorality, while brazenly justifying their self-willed course by misapplying scriptures. False prophesying indeed! They would influence others to fall into their own ways of “fornication, uncleanness, sexual appetite, hurtful desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.” (Colossians 3:5) They would have those in the congregation indulge in an immoral, self-seeking lifestyle of the kind that is now countenanced, or winked at, in most of Christendom’s religions.
8. (a) What is Jesus’ pronouncement about the “Jezebel” in Thyatira? (b) How has improper female influence been felt in modern times?
8 Jesus goes on to tell the elders in Thyatira: “And I gave her time to repent, but she is not willing to repent of her fornication. Look! I am about to throw her into a sickbed, and those committing adultery with her into great tribulation, unless they repent of her deeds.” (Revelation 2:21, 22) Just as the original Jezebel apparently dominated Ahab and then defied God’s executioner, Jehu, so this female influence may be trying to manipulate husbands and elders. It seems that the elders in Thyatira are tolerating this immodest Jezebel influence. Jesus here sounds a strong warning for them, as well as for the global congregation of Jehovah’s people today. In modern times, some such strong-willed women have induced their husbands to become apostates and have even instigated court action against Jehovah’s faithful servants.—Compare Jude 5-8.
9. (a) Why do Jesus’ words about Jezebel not reflect unfavorably on all women in the congregation? (b) When only is it that a Jezebel influence arises?
9 This in no way reflects unfavorably on faithful women in the Christian congregation. Nowadays, a great part of the witness work is being accomplished by faithful sisters; through the home Bible studies that they conduct, they are bringing throngs of new ones into the congregation. God himself blesses this arrangement, as is indicated by Psalm 68:11: “Jehovah himself gives the saying; the women telling the good news are a large army.” Husbands may be influenced for good by the mild, respectful conduct of their wives, which “is of great value in the eyes of God.” (1 Peter 3:1-4) The capable, industrious wife is praised by King Lemuel. (Proverbs 31:10-31) It is only when women step out of line by seducing men or by challenging or ignoring headship that a Jezebel influence arises.—Ephesians 5:22, 23; 1 Corinthians 11:3.
10. (a) Why do Jezebel and her children receive judgment? (b) In what dangerous condition are those who become children of Jezebel, and what should such ones do?
10 Referring to “that woman Jezebel,” Jesus continues: “And her children I will kill with deadly plague, so that all the congregations will know that I am he who searches the kidneys and hearts, and I will give to you individually according to your deeds.” (Revelation 2:23) Jesus has allowed Jezebel and her children time to repent, but they persist in their immoral ways and hence must receive judgment. There is a powerful message here for Christians today. Those who imitate Jezebel, whether men or women, and thus become her children by violating Bible principles on headship and morality or by being headstrong so as to ignore theocratic order, are spiritually in a dangerously sick condition. True, if such a one calls upon the elders in the congregation to pray over him, “the prayer of faith will make the indisposed one well, and Jehovah will raise him up”—provided he humbly acts in harmony with those prayers. But let no one think that he (or she) can fool God or Christ by attempting to conceal immoral acts or by putting on an outward show of zealous service.—James 5:14, 15.
11. How are congregations today helped to be awake to intrusion of unlawful female influence?
11 Happily, most congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses today are awake to this danger. Elders are watchful of trends toward untheocratic attitudes and wrongdoing. They try to help both males and females who are in danger’s way so that these may build spirituality and be readjusted before it is too late. (Galatians 5:16; 6:1) Lovingly and firmly, these Christian overseers restrain any female effort to form cliques for promoting moves similar to women’s liberation. Moreover, timely counsel is periodically given in the publications of Jehovah’s Witnesses.a
12. In what way does the John class today demonstrate a zeal similar to that of Jehu?
12 However, where there has been gross immorality, and especially where this becomes a practice, unrepentant sinners must be disfellowshipped. We recall Jehu’s zeal in getting rid of all traces of Jezebel’s influence in Israel. Likewise, the John class today take firm action, setting an example for their “Jehonadab” companions and showing themselves to be far different from Christendom’s permissive ministers.—2 Kings 9:22, 30-37; 10:12-17.
13. What will happen to those who succumb to wrongful female influence?
13 As Jehovah’s Messenger and Judge, the Son of God acts rightly in identifying the modern Jezebel and throwing her into a sickbed, for her spiritual sickness is indeed a chronic one. (Malachi 3:1, 5) Those who have succumbed to this wrongful female influence will also suffer great tribulation—the sorrow of being disfellowshipped, cut off from the Christian congregation as though dead. Unless these repent, turn around, and are accepted back into the congregation, they also face physical death by “deadly plague”—at the latest, in the great tribulation. Meanwhile, restoration is possible if they fully repent of their wrong deeds.—Matthew 24:21, 22; 2 Corinthians 7:10.
14. (a) How does Jesus use the elders in handling certain problems, such as any Jezebel influence? (b) How should the congregation support the elders who handle such problems?
14 “All the congregations” must come to know that Jesus searches “the kidneys,” the deepest emotions, and the ‘heart,’ the innermost person, including the underlying motives. To this end, he uses trusted stars, or elders, in handling certain problems, such as any Jezebel influence that appears. (Revelation 1:20) After these elders have fully examined a matter of this kind and judgment has been rendered, it is not for individuals to probe into the whys and wherefores of the action taken. All should humbly accept the elders’ disposal of matters and continue to be supportive of these congregation stars. Loyalty to Jehovah and his organizational arrangements will be rewarded. (Psalm 37:27-29; Hebrews 13:7, 17) For your own part, may your share be a blessing when Jesus gives to each one individually according to his deeds.—Galatians 5:19-24; 6:7-9.
“Hold Fast What You Have”
15. (a) What did Jesus have to say to those who had not been corrupted by Jezebel? (b) What shows that not all who claimed to be Christians back in 1918 had been corrupted by apostate Christendom?
15 Jesus’ next words bring comfort: “However, I say to the rest of you who are in Thyatira, all those who do not have this teaching, the very ones who did not get to know the ‘deep things of Satan,’ as they say: I am not putting upon you any other burden. Just the same, hold fast what you have until I come.” (Revelation 2:24, 25) There are faithful souls in Thyatira who have not been influenced by Jezebel. Similarly, for 40 years prior to 1918 and since then, not all professing Christians have tolerated the immoral, corrupt ways that are so rampant in Christendom. The small band of Bible Students, now known as Jehovah’s Witnesses, that tried to help church members see the un-Christian origin of many of Christendom’s doctrines, has moved to rid itself of all Babylonish beliefs and practices received through apostate Christendom. This includes the permissive teaching of “that woman Jezebel.”
16. Though Jesus and the first-century Christian governing body did not add any further burden, what things must be avoided?
16 The John class today have also encouraged their companions, the great crowd, to beware of immoral influences, such as those in the debased world of entertainment. There is no need to view or experience corruption out of curiosity or in order to learn what to avoid. It is the course of wisdom to keep far away from the “deep things of Satan.” As Jesus says: “I am not putting upon you any other burden.” This reminds us of the decree of the Christian governing body of the first century: “The holy spirit and we ourselves have favored adding no further burden to you, except these necessary things, to keep abstaining from things sacrificed to idols and from blood and from things strangled and from fornication. If you carefully keep yourselves from these things, you will prosper.” (Acts 15:28, 29) For spiritual prosperity, avoid false religion, misuse of blood (as in blood transfusions), and immorality! And your physical health will likely be protected too.
17. (a) How has Satan tempted people today with “deep things”? (b) What should be our attitude toward the “deep things” of Satan’s sophisticated world?
17 Satan has other “deep things” today, such as complicated speculations and philosophies that flatter the intellect. In addition to permissive, immoral reasonings, these include spiritism and the theory of evolution. How does the all-wise Creator regard these “deep things”? The apostle Paul quotes him as saying: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise ones.” In contrast thereto, “the deep things of God” are simple, lucid, and heartwarming. Wise Christians shun the “deep things” of Satan’s sophisticated world. Remember, “the world is passing away and so is its desire, but he that does the will of God remains forever.”—1 Corinthians 1:19, Kingdom Interlinear; 2:10; 1 John 2:17.
18. What blessings did Jesus promise anointed Christians who remain faithful down to the end, and what privilege will these resurrected ones have at Armageddon?
18 To those Christians in Thyatira, Jesus now speaks heartwarming words. They also encourage anointed Christians today: “And to him that conquers and observes my deeds down to the end I will give authority over the nations, and he shall shepherd the people with an iron rod so that they will be broken to pieces like clay vessels, the same as I have received from my Father.” (Revelation 2:26, 27) Indeed a wonderful privilege! This authority that anointed conquerors receive at their resurrection is a sharing with Jesus in wielding the “iron rod” of destruction against the rebellious nations at Armageddon. At best, the nuclear firepower of those nations will sputter like a wet firecracker when Christ dashes his enemies to pieces as he would vessels of clay.—Psalm 2:8, 9; Revelation 16:14, 16; 19:11-13, 15.
19. (a) Who is “the morning star,” and how will he be given to those who conquer? (b) What encouragement is offered to the great crowd?
19 Jesus adds: “And I will give him the morning star.” (Revelation 2:28) Jesus himself later explains what this “star” is, saying: “I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright morning star.” (Revelation 22:16) Yes, it is Jesus who fulfills the prophecy that Jehovah forced from the unwilling lips of Balaam: “A star will certainly step forth out of Jacob, and a scepter will indeed rise out of Israel.” (Numbers 24:17) How will Jesus give “the morning star” to those who conquer? Evidently, by giving himself to them, by taking them into the closest, most intimate relationship with him. (John 14:2, 3) Surely a powerful inducement to endure! Stimulating it is, too, for the great crowd to know that “the bright morning star” will soon exercise his Kingdom authority in restoring Paradise here on earth!
Maintain Integrity
20. What developments in Christendom remind us of some of the weaknesses in the congregation in Thyatira?
20 This message must have encouraged the Christians in Thyatira greatly. Just imagine—the glorified Son of God in heaven had personally spoken to the Christians in Thyatira about some of their problems! Surely, at least some in the congregation responded to such loving shepherding. This longest of the seven messages also helps us to identify the true Christian congregation today. In 1918 when Jesus came to Jehovah’s temple for judgment, the vast majority of organizations claiming to be Christian were sullied by idolatry and spiritual immorality. (James 4:4) Some based their beliefs on the teachings of strong-minded women of the 19th century, such as Ellen White of the Seventh-Day Adventists and Mary Baker Eddy of the Christian Scientists, and more recently many women have been preaching from the pulpit. (Contrast 1 Timothy 2:11, 12.) Among the different forms of Catholicism, Mary is often honored ahead of God and Christ. Jesus did not so honor her. (John 2:4; 19:26) Could organizations that admit such unlawful female influence really be accepted as Christian?
21. What lessons are there for individuals in Jesus’ message to Thyatira?
21 Individual Christians, whether of the John class or of the other sheep, do well to consider this message. (John 10:16) Some may find it tempting to follow an easy course, as those disciples of the Thyatiran Jezebel did. There is also the temptation to compromise. Today, issues such as eating blood products or accepting blood transfusions have to be faced. Some may feel that zeal in field service or giving talks eninputs them to be less strict in other areas, such as in watching violent and immoral movies and video tapes, or overindulging in alcohol. Jesus’ warning to the Christians in Thyatira tells us we must not take such liberties. Jehovah wants us to be clean, whole-souled, not divided, as many Christians were in Thyatira.
22. How does Jesus stress the importance of having a hearing ear?
22 Finally, Jesus declares: “Let the one who has an ear hear what the spirit says to the congregations.” (Revelation 2:29) For the fourth time, Jesus here repeats this rousing refrain, and it will conclude all three messages yet to come. Do you have that responsive ear? Then keep listening intently as God, by his spirit, continues to provide counsel through his channel.
[Footnote]
a See, for example, the article “Faithful Christian Women—Precious Worshipers of God” in the November 1, 2003, issue of The Watchtower.
[Pictures on page 51]
Today, a great part of the witness work is accomplished by faithful sisters as they modestly support theocratic authority |
Jeremiah (jr)
2010 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/jr | God’s Word for Us Through Jeremiah |
What Is Prophecy? | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502016160 | What Is Prophecy?
The Bible’s answer
A prophecy is a message inspired by God, a divine revelation. The Bible says that prophets “spoke from God as they were moved by holy spirit.” (2 Peter 1:20, 21) So a prophet is one who receives God’s message and transmits it to others.—Acts 3:18.
How did prophets receive information from God?
God used several methods to transmit his thoughts to his prophets:
Writing. God used this method in at least one case by directly supplying to Moses the Ten Commandments in written form.—Exodus 31:18.
Oral communication through angels. For example, God used an angel to instruct Moses about the message he was to deliver to Pharaoh of Egypt. (Exodus 3:2-4, 10) When precise wording was crucial, God directed angels to dictate his message, as he did when he told Moses: “Write down these words, because in accordance with these words, I am making a covenant with you and with Israel.”—Exodus 34:27.a
Visions. These were sometimes given while the prophet was awake and fully conscious. (Isaiah 1:1; Habakkuk 1:1) Some were so vivid that the recipient participated in them. (Luke 9:28-36; Revelation 1:10-17) At other times, visions were conveyed while the recipient was in a trance. (Acts 10:10, 11; 22:17-21) God also transmitted his message by dreams while the prophet slept.—Daniel 7:1; Acts 16:9, 10.
Mental guidance. God guided the thoughts of his prophets to convey his message. This is the sense of the Bible’s statement: “All Scripture is inspired of God.” The phrase “inspired of God” can also be rendered “God-breathed.” (2 Timothy 3:16; The Emphasised Bible) God used his holy spirit, or active force, to “breathe” his ideas into the minds of his servants. The message was God’s, but the prophet selected the wording.—2 Samuel 23:1, 2.
Does prophecy always involve foretelling the future?
No, Bible prophecy is not limited to foretelling the future. However, most messages from God relate to the future, even if only indirectly. For example, God’s prophets repeatedly warned the ancient Israelites about their evil ways. Those warnings described the future blessings if the people would heed the warning, as well as the future calamity if they refused. (Jeremiah 25:4-6) The actual outcome depended on the course that the Israelites chose to follow.—Deuteronomy 30:19, 20.
Examples of Bible prophecies not involving predictions
On one occasion when the Israelites asked God for help, he sent a prophet to explain that because they had refused to obey God’s commands, He had not helped them.—Judges 6:6-10.
When Jesus spoke to a Samaritan woman, he revealed things about her past that he could have known only by divine revelation. She recognized him as a prophet even though he had made no predictions about the future.—John 4:17-19.
At Jesus’ trial, his enemies covered his face, hit him, and then said: “Prophesy! Who is it that struck you?” They were not calling for Jesus to foretell the future but for him to identify by divine power who had hit him.—Luke 22:63, 64.
a Although it might at first appear that God spoke directly to Moses in this example, the Bible shows that God used angels to transmit the Mosaic Law covenant.—Acts 7:53; Galatians 3:19. |
Many Religions—What Does It Mean to You? | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101984004 | Many Religions—What Does It Mean to You?
PERPLEXED by the vast array of religions with their confusing dogmas, rituals and practices, and their hostility toward one another, the tendency of many is to shun all religion. Others no longer have faith because of certain personal tragedies that they feel God could have prevented. Still others, on seeing the suffering and injustices among people in the world, decide that there is no use believing in anything. And many others, influenced by evolution, turn to atheism and agnosticism. Do you identify with any of these people and how they feel about religion?
Does Disbelief Satisfy?
Though many today have turned away from religion, does their course of disbelief bring them satisfaction and happiness? Perhaps freeing oneself from the entanglement of the world’s religions does bring a measure of relief. Yet, sooner or later, one comes to realize that man has a spiritual side to him that has to be satisfied. He often wonders: ‘How did we get here? Why are we here? What is the meaning of life? What does the future hold?’
That was the experience of one-time agnostic Masao Fujimaki, who said: “From my youth on I used to think about life and death. Death seemed to me to be such a tragedy, a waste. It made any goal in life seem futile and empty.”
To fill this void, people who reject organized religion or the belief in a Creator often turn with religious passion to some substitute god. Science, politics, philosophy, and even agnosticism and atheism become their fervently held religion.
The popular scientist Carl Sagan, for example, once stated in an interview: “If you look into science you will find a sense of intricacy, depth, and exquisite beauty which, I believe, is much more powerful than the offerings of any bureaucratic religion.” Then he added: “I would not even object to saying that the sense of awe before the grandeur of nature is itself a religious experience.”
But do such ‘experiences’ really satisfy man’s spiritual needs? Fujimaki, quoted above, answered: “I became quite wrapped up in the study of electricity, feeling that the laws controlling electricity were the only things I could trust. But still something was lacking in my life. I needed to know God’s name and his purpose for me.”
Similarly, Alexander Solzhenitsyn, the noted Soviet exile and author who considered himself a Marxist in his younger years, took a dim view of atheism when he said recently in an award-acceptance speech: “The entire 20th century is being sucked into the vortex of atheism and self-destruction. We can only reach with determination for the warm hand of God, which we have so rashly and self-confidently pushed away . . . There is nothing else to cling to in the landslide.” That surely does not sound as if disbelief or atheism is the answer, does it?
Finding the Way
Does this, then, mean that any religion is good as long as it fills a void and satisfies some yearnings of the soul? This, surely, would not be the case, for, as we have seen, not all religions produce the right kind of fruit even if they have an outward appearance of holiness. So, then, how does one go about finding real satisfaction among so many religions?
Abraham Lincoln, when explaining why he had never joined any religion, said: “When any church will inscribe over its altar as its sole qualifications for membership the Savior’s condensed statement of the substance of both the law and the gospel, ‘Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself’—that church will I join with all my heart and all my soul.”
The words quoted by Lincoln were spoken by Jesus Christ and are found in the Bible at Luke 10:27. They clearly point to love—for God and for fellowmen—as an identifying mark of true religion. It is no wonder that people are turned away when they see so-called Christian folks and other religious people fighting and killing one another in sanguinary wars, or pursuing and promoting immoral ways of life that bring harm to themselves and others.
On the other hand, throughout the world Jehovah’s Witnesses have become well known during this century as the people who maintain strict neutrality toward the nations’ conflicts. During World War II, hundreds of them were executed because of their refusal to compromise their Christian principles. In some countries young Witness schoolboys today know that upon graduation they face many years of imprisonment for their refusal to comply with compulsory military service. In some other countries, where education is highly regarded, schoolchildren are willing to give up graduation prospects rather than take part in martial arts training. Why? Not because they are antigovernment or antisocial, but because their love for God and for fellowmen moves them to nonparticipation in the world’s violent ways.
What about good morals in words and deeds? Some may say: ‘Aren’t there nice people in all religions?’ Yes, but such “niceness” may have very little to do with love of God, and very often it is swayed to badness in times of crisis. The words of Jesus Christ quoted above show that love of neighbor is secondary to love of God. True neighbor love must be based on, or motivated by, love of God.
Thus, besides endeavoring to live a good and moral life, Jehovah’s Witnesses demonstrate this kind of love when they volunteer their time and energy in calling from house to house to share with others something unique—a Bible-based hope of living forever here on earth in peace and harmony with men and with God.—Isaiah 45:18; Revelation 21:4.
The Choice Is Yours
In this series of articles we have considered several aspects of the world’s religions. On the one hand, we have seen that although there are so many religions today, they have developed from the same source of false Babylonish religion and thus are producing fruitage that is disappointing. On the other hand, we have investigated the alternatives, namely, disbelief, agnosticism and atheism, and found that these and other substitute “religions” cannot truly satisfy man’s needs.
Being confronted by this situation in world religion, what will you do? Will you be like the person described in Psalm 10:4, who “makes no search” because “all his ideas are: ‘There is no God’”? Or will you be willing to accept the invitation extended to you by Jehovah’s Witnesses and search for the true God and the religion that he approves?
Masao Fujimaki, who was torn between his faith in science and his need to know God and the purpose of life, made the choice. “When a missionary of Jehovah’s Witnesses called at my door, I readily accepted a Bible study,” he said. As the study progressed, he began to see how reliable and accurate Bible prophecies are as they undergo fulfillment. “This had a great impact on me,” he recalled, and it led him to conclude that Jehovah God and his promises are trustworthy.
Through later association with Jehovah’s Witnesses, he saw the same quality reflected among them, and he decided that he wanted to become one of them. He was baptized after studying for about one year, and he eventually became an elder in the local congregation.
He saw the situation and made the right choice. It is just as Moses told the Israelites when they camped on the Plains of Moab prepared to enter the Promised Land: “I have put life and death before you, the blessing and the malediction; and you must choose life in order that you may keep alive, you and your offspring, by loving Jehovah your God, by listening to his voice and by sticking to him.” (Deuteronomy 30:19, 20) Yes, there is a choice, and it is up to you. What will you do?
[Picture on page 13]
One fruit of true religion is peace between men of all nationalities and races |
Greatest Man (gt)
1991 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/gt | Chapter 20
Second Miracle While in Cana
WHEN Jesus returns to his home territory after an extended preaching campaign in Judea, it is not to rest up. Rather, he begins an even greater ministry in Galilee, the land where he grew up. But his disciples, instead of staying with him, return home to their families and their former occupations.
What message does Jesus begin preaching? This: “The kingdom of God has drawn near. Be repentant, you people, and have faith in the good news.” And the response? The Galileans receive Jesus. He is held in honor by all. However, this is not particularly due to his message but, rather, because many of them were at the Passover in Jerusalem months before and saw the remarkable signs he performed.
Jesus apparently begins his great Galilean ministry in Cana. Earlier, you may recall, on returning from Judea, he turned water into wine at a wedding feast there. On this second occasion, the child of a government official of King Herod Antipas is very sick. Hearing that Jesus has come from Judea to Cana, the official travels all the way from his home in Capernaum to find Jesus. Grief-stricken, the man urges: ‘Please come immediately, before my child dies.’
Jesus responds: ‘Go back home. Your son is healed!’ Herod’s official believes and starts on the long trip home. On the way he is met by his servants, who have hurried to tell him that all is well—his son has recovered! ‘When did he get better?’ he asks.
‘Yesterday at 1:00 p.m.,’ they answer.
The official realizes that this is the very hour when Jesus said, ‘Your son is healed!’ After that, the man and his entire household become disciples of Christ.
Cana thus became favored as the place where, signaling his return from Judea, Jesus twice performed miracles. These, of course, are not the only miracles he performed up to this time, but they are significant because they marked his return to Galilee.
Jesus now heads home to Nazareth. What awaits him there? John 4:43-54; Mark 1:14, 15; Luke 4:14, 15.
▪ When Jesus returns to Galilee, what happens to his disciples, and how do people receive him?
▪ What miracle does Jesus perform, and how does it affect those involved?
▪ How is Cana thus favored by Jesus? |
Kurukshetra (ku)
1983 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/brochures-and-booklets/kurukshetra-ku | input Page/Publishers’ Page
From Kurukshetra to Armageddon—and Your Survival |
Blood brochure (hb)
1990 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/brochures-and-booklets/blood-brochure-hb | Blood—Vital for Life
How can blood save your life? This no doubt is of interest to you because blood is instructioned to your life. Blood carries oxygen through your body, removes carbon dioxide, helps you adapt to temperature changes, and aids in your fight against disease.
The instructionage of life to blood was made long before William Harvey mapped the circulatory system in 1628. The basic ethics of major religions focus on a Life-Giver, who expressed himself about life and about blood. A Judeo-Christian lawyer said of him: “He himself gives to all persons life and breath and all things. For by him we have life and move and exist.”a
People who believe in such a Life-Giver trust that his directions are for our lasting good. A Hebrew prophet described him as “the One teaching you to benefit yourself, the One causing you to tread in the way in which you should walk.”
That assurance, at Isaiah 48:17, is part of the Bible, a book respected for ethical values that can benefit all of us. What does it say about human use of blood? Does it show how lives can be saved with blood? Actually, the Bible shows clearly that blood is more than a complex biologic fluid. It mentions blood over 400 times, and some of these references involve the saving of life.
In one early reference, the Creator declared: “Everything that lives and moves will be food for you. . . . But you must not eat meat that has its lifeblood still in it.” He added: “For your lifeblood I will surely demand an accounting,” and he then condemned murder. (Genesis 9:3-6, New International Version) He said that to Noah, a common ancestor highly esteemed by Jews, Muslims, and Christians. All humanity was thus notified that in the Creator’s view, blood stands for life. This was more than a dietary regulation. Clearly a moral principle was involved. Human blood has great significance and should not be misused. The Creator later added details from which we can easily see the moral issues that he instructions to lifeblood.
He again referred to blood when he gave the Law code to ancient Israel. While many people respect the wisdom and ethics in that code, few are aware of its serious laws on blood. For instance: “If anyone of the house of Israel or of the strangers who reside among them partakes of any blood, I will set My face against the person who partakes of the blood, and I will cut him off from among his kin. For the life of the flesh is in the blood.” (Leviticus 17:10, 11, Tanakh) God then explained what a hunter was to do with a dead animal: “He shall pour out its blood and cover it with earth. . . . You shall not partake of the blood of any flesh, for the life of all flesh is its blood. Anyone who partakes of it shall be cut off.”—Leviticus 17:13, 14, Ta.
Scientists now know that the Jewish Law code promoted good health. It required, for example, that excrement be deposited outside the camp and covered and that people not eat meat that carried a high risk of disease. (Leviticus 11:4-8, 13; 17:15; Deuteronomy 23:12, 13) While the law about blood had health aspects, much more was involved. Blood had a symbolic meaning. It stood for life provided by the Creator. By treating blood as special, the people showed dependence on him for life. Yes, the chief reason why they were not to take in blood was, not that it was unhealthy, but that it had special meaning to God.
The Law repeatedly stated the Creator’s ban on taking in blood to sustain life. “You must not eat the blood; pour it out on the ground like water. Do not eat it, so that it may go well with you and your children after you, because you will be doing what is right.”—Deuteronomy 12:23-25, NIV; De 15:23; Leviticus 7:26, 27; Ezekiel 33:25.b
Contrary to how some today reason, God’s law on blood was not to be ignored just because an emergency arose. During a wartime crisis, some Israelite soldiers killed animals and “fell to eating along with the blood.” In view of the emergency, was it permissible for them to sustain their lives with blood? No. Their commander pointed out that their course was still a grave wrong. (1 Samuel 14:31-35) Hence, precious as life is, our Life-Giver never said that his standards could be ignored in an emergency.
BLOOD AND TRUE CHRISTIANS
Where does Christianity stand on the question of saving human life with blood?
Jesus was a man of integrity, which is why he is so highly regarded. He knew that the Creator said that taking in blood was wrong and that this law was binding. Hence, there is good reason to believe that Jesus would uphold the law about blood even if he was under pressure to do otherwise. Jesus “did no wrong, [and] no treachery was found on his lips.” (1 Peter 2:22, Knox) He thus set a pattern for his followers, including a pattern of respect for life and blood. (We will later consider how Jesus’ own blood is involved in this vital matter affecting your life.)
Note what happened when, years after Jesus’ death, a question arose about whether someone becoming a Christian had to keep all of Israel’s laws. This was discussed at a council of the Christian governing body, which included the apostles. Jesus’ half brother James referred to writings containing the commands about blood stated to Noah and to the nation of Israel. Would such be binding on Christians?—Acts 15:1-21.
That council sent their decision to all congregations: Christians need not keep the code given to Moses, but it is “necessary” for them to “keep abstaining from things sacrificed to idols and from blood and from things strangled [unbled meat] and from fornication.” (Acts 15:22-29) The apostles were not presenting a mere ritual or dietary ordinance. The decree set out fundamental ethical norms, which early Christians complied with. About a decade later they acknowledged that they should still “keep themselves from what is sacrificed to idols as well as from blood . . . and from fornication.”—Acts 21:25.
You know that millions of people attend churches. Most of them would probably agree that Christian ethics involve not giving worship to idols and not sharing in gross immorality. However, it is worth our noting that the apostles put avoiding blood on the same high moral level as avoiding those wrongs. Their decree concluded: “If you carefully keep yourselves from these things, you will prosper. Good health to you!”—Acts 15:29.
The apostolic decree was long understood as binding. Eusebius tells of a young woman near the end of the second century who, before dying under torture, made the point that Christians “are not allowed to eat the blood even of irrational animals.” She was not exercising a right to die. She wanted to live, but she would not compromise her principles. Do you not respect those who put principle above personal gain?
Scientist Joseph Priestley concluded: “The prohibition to eat blood, given to Noah, seems to be obligatory on all his posterity . . . If we interpret [the] prohibition of the apostles by the practice of the primitive Christians, who can hardly be supposed not to have rightly understood the nature and extent of it, we cannot but conclude, that it was intended to be absolute and perpetual; for blood was not eaten by any Christians for many centuries.”
WHAT OF USING BLOOD AS MEDICINE?
Would the Biblical prohibition on blood cover medical uses, such as transfusions, which certainly were not known in the days of Noah, Moses, or the apostles?
While modern therapy employing blood did not exist back then, medicinal use of blood is not modern. For some 2,000 years, in Egypt and elsewhere, human “blood was regarded as the sovereign remedy for leprosy.” A physician revealed the therapy given to King Esar-haddon’s son when the nation of Assyria was on the leading edge of technology: “[The prince] is doing much better; the king, my lord, can be happy. Starting with the 22nd day I give (him) blood to drink, he will drink (it) for 3 days. For 3 more days I shall give (him blood) for internal application.” Esar-haddon had dealings with the Israelites. Yet, because the Israelites had God’s Law, they would never drink blood as medicine.
Was blood used as medicine in Roman times? The naturalist Pliny (a contemporary of the apostles) and the second-century physician Aretaeus report that human blood was a treatment for epilepsy. Tertullian later wrote: “Consider those who with greedy thirst, at a show in the arena, take the fresh blood of wicked criminals . . . and carry it off to heal their epilepsy.” He contrasted them with Christians, who “do not even have the blood of animals at [their] meals . . . At the trials of Christians you offer them sausages filled with blood. You are convinced, of course, that [it] is unlawful for them.” So, early Christians would risk death rather than take in blood.
“Blood in its more everyday form did not . . . go out of fashion as an ingredient in medicine and magic,” reports the book Flesh and Blood. “In 1483, for example, Louis XI of France was dying. ‘Every day he grew worse, and the medicines profited him nothing, though of a strange character; for he vehemently hoped to recover by the human blood which he took and swallowed from certain children.’”
What of transfusing blood? Experiments with this began near the start of the 16th century. Thomas Bartholin (1616-80), professor of anatomy at the University of Copenhagen, objected: ‘Those who drag in the use of human blood for internal remedies of diseases appear to misuse it and to sin gravely. Cannibals are condemned. Why do we not abhor those who stain their gullet with human blood? Similar is the receiving of alien blood from a cut vein, either through the mouth or by instruments of transfusion. The authors of this operation are held in terror by the divine law, by which the eating of blood is prohibited.’
Hence, thinking people in past centuries realized that the Biblical law applied to taking blood into the veins just as it did to taking it into the mouth. Bartholin concluded: “Either manner of taking [blood] accords with one and the same purpose, that by this blood a sick body be nourished or restored.”
This overview may help you to understand the nonnegotiable religious stand that Jehovah’s Witnesses take. They highly value life, and they seek good medical care. But they are determined not to violate God’s standard, which has been consistent: Those who respect life as a gift from the Creator do not try to sustain life by taking in blood.
Still, for years claims have been made that blood saves lives. Doctors can relate cases in which someone had acute blood loss but was transfused and then improved rapidly. So you may wonder, ‘How wise or unwise is this medically?’ Medical evidence is offered to support blood therapy. Thus, you owe it to yourself to get the facts in order to make an informed choice about blood.
[Footnotes]
a Paul, at Acts 17:25, 28, New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures.
b Similar prohibitions were later written in the Qurʼān.
[Box on page 4]
“The precepts hereby set down in a precise and methodical manner [in Acts 15] are qualified as indispensable, giving the strongest proof that in the apostles’ minds this was not a temporary arrangement, or a provisional measure.”—Professor Édouard Reuss, University of Strasbourg.
[Box/Picture on page 5]
Martin Luther pointed to the implications of the apostolic decree: “Now if we want to have a church that conforms to this council, . . . we must teach and insist that henceforth no prince, lord, burgher, or peasant eat geese, doe, stag, or pork cooked in blood . . . And burghers and peasants must abstain especially from red sausage and blood sausage.”
[Credit Line]
Woodcut by Lucas Cranach
[Box on page 6]
“God and men view things in very different lights. What appears important in our eye is very often of no account in the estimation of infinite wisdom; and what appears trifling to us is often of very great importance with God. It was so from the beginning.”—“An Enquiry Into the Lawfulness of Eating Blood,” Alexander Pirie, 1787.
[Picture on page 3]
Medicine and the Artist by Carl Zigrosser/Dover Publications
[Picture on page 4]
At a historic council, the Christian governing body confirmed that God’s law on blood is still binding
[Picture on page 7]
Whatever the consequences, the early Christians refused to violate God’s law on blood
[Credit Line]
Painting by Gérôme, 1883, courtesy of Walters Art Gallery, Baltimore |
Scriptures for Christian Living (scl)
2023 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/scl | Sin
What is sin, and why does it affect all of us?
Ps 51:5; Ro 3:23; 5:12; 6:23; 1Jo 3:4; 5:17
How does the Bible assure us that we can fight against our sinful tendencies?
Ro 6:12-14
Relevant Bible account(s):
2Sa 11:2-5, 14, 15, 26, 27; 12:1-13—King David commits very serious sins, faces strong discipline, and tries hard to correct his ways
Ro 7:15-24—The apostle Paul, an excellent example of faith and godly devotion, describes his struggle with his own sinful tendencies
How do ignorance and deception cause many people to sin?
Ac 3:17; 17:29, 30; 1Ti 1:13; 1Pe 1:14
See also Nu 15:27-29
Why is the deliberate practice of sin especially serious?
Heb 10:26, 27; 1Jo 3:4, 8, 9
See also Nu 15:30; Ro 1:28-32; 1Ti 5:20
What might Satan use to tempt God’s servants to sin?
Pr 1:10, 11, 15; Mt 5:28; Jas 1:14, 15
Relevant Bible account(s):
Ge 3:1-6—Speaking through a serpent, Satan tempts Eve by appealing to her selfish desires and by undermining her confidence in Jehovah
Pr 7:6-10, 21-23—King Solomon describes how a young man who is lacking good sense gives in to temptation from an immoral woman
How can we resist Satan’s temptations?
Eph 4:27; 6:10-18; Jas 4:7, 8
Relevant Bible account(s):
Pr 5:1-14—King Solomon offers inspired fatherly advice on why and how to avoid the temptation to commit immorality
Mt 4:1-11—Jesus sets the perfect example in resisting Satan’s clever temptations by relying on God’s Word
What are some examples of serious sins that Christians must avoid?
See “Wrong Practices”
Confession of sins
Why should we not try to hide our sins?
Pr 28:13; Ro 14:12; 1Ti 5:24; Heb 4:13
To whom must we confess all sins?
Ps 32:5; Mt 6:9-14
Who acts as “a helper” by interceding in our behalf before Jehovah?
1Jo 2:1; Ro 5:1, 2; 8:34; Eph 2:13, 18; 5:1, 2; Heb 7:25
Can a sinner show his repentance by means of his actions?
Ac 26:20; Jas 4:8-10
See also “Repentance”
Relevant Bible account(s):
Ex 22:1-12—Under the Mosaic Law, a thief is required to make compensation to his victims for what he stole
Lu 19:8, 9—The chief tax collector Zacchaeus shows his repentance by changing his ways and by making restitution to those whom he wronged
Why may we be confident in Jehovah’s forgiveness?
See “Forgiveness”
What arrangement has Jehovah put in place to provide help and to protect the congregation when someone commits a serious sin?
Jas 5:14, 15
See also Ac 20:28; Ga 6:1
How might a serious sin affect others in our family or in the congregation?
Heb 12:15, 16
See also De 29:18
Relevant Bible account(s):
Jos 7:1-13, 20-26—Achan brings disaster on all of Israel by committing a serious sin and attempting to conceal it
Jon 1:1-16—Because he is rebelling against Jehovah, the prophet Jonah puts in danger the lives of all those in the ship with him
1Co 5:1-7—The apostle Paul exposes a case of serious sin in Corinth that is damaging the entire congregation
Why should the fear of discipline never keep us from seeking help from the elders?
Pr 3:11, 12; Heb 12:5-7, 11; Jas 5:14, 15
Why should we accept God’s forgiveness rather than grieve endlessly over a past wrongdoing?
See “Forgiveness”
If we become aware of a serious sin, why should we make sure that the sinner brings the matter to the attention of the congregation elders?
Le 5:1
Relevant Bible account(s):
De 13:6-9; 21:18-20—The Mosaic Law requires that a person report the serious sin of even a family member or a loved one |
Watching the World | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101988010 | Watching the World
First for Witnesses!
Authorities in the African country of Tanzania have for the first time given approval for Jehovah’s Witnesses to meet together freely for Christian worship. During May and June last year, a series of five circuit assemblies was successfully held throughout the country. The combined attendance for these gatherings was 5,177, with 124 baptized—the highest number of baptisms ever recorded in the history of the work of the Witnesses in Tanzania. For most in attendance, it was their first assembly. One assembly was held in the main auditorium on the campus of the University of Dar es Salaam.
Catholics Defect
One out of every five persons raised as a Roman Catholic “no longer considers himself or herself an adherent of the faith,” reports The New York Times. When compared to the number of people converting to Catholicism, the number of defections, the survey shows, is three times greater. The survey cited interfaith marriages as a primary factor among those defecting. At least one half of the former Catholics interviewed stated they married non-Catholics, while one fourth said they were presently divorced or had been divorced and were now remarried. The average age of those who have distanced themselves from the church was 36.
Animal Chiropractors
A growing number of chiropractors are treating animals as well as humans, reports The Wall Street Journal. “A few chiropractors now practice on animals full time, including several who are also veterinarians.” While not universally acclaimed, the animal chiropractors say they have got results where traditional veterinarians have failed. Among the animals worked on have been horses, llamas, cats, dogs, and parakeets. Because of tiny or, more often, massive bones, new techniques have had to be developed. “Some chiropractors place a padded 2-by-4 against a large animal’s bones and pound the board with a mallet,” says the Journal.
Stamp Mania
“In 1985 alone, countries around the world produced 9,141 [new issues of] stamps and 915 miniature sheets of stamps,” notes The New York Times. “Purchasing just one of each would have cost a collector more than $12,000.” Stamps are now one of the most lucrative exports among South Pacific nations. Only 20 percent of the stamps produced by Tonga, for instance, are actually used for mail. Distinctive stamps that are round, the shape of pineapples or bananas, or shaped like the country have been snapped up by collectors. “The Pitcairn Islands, home to only about 50 people, issues new sets of stamps four times a year and exports almost nothing else,” says the Times. And Tuvalu, a nation of 8,000 population, “issues an average of one new stamp a day.”
Positive Steps
The Belgian daily newspaper Le Soir reports that positive steps have been taken by the new president of Burundi to restore religious freedom throughout the country. In a 30-minute speech shortly after the coup ousting the former president, the newly installed president, Major Pierre Buyoya, “affirmed his intention to reestablish freedom of worship, which supposed the lifting of a number of restrictive measures that were aimed at Catholics, but also Jehovah’s Witnesses, Protestants, and Muslims,” notes Le Soir. President Buyoya criticized “the increasing number of preventive detentions that were too prolonged, arbitrary and often under inhuman conditions, and the absence of a coordinated stand against criminality.” Upholding the president’s policy on human rights, the new government of Burundi has released all imprisoned Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Microwaving Milk
According to the book The Canadian Parents’ Sourcebook, warming baby’s milk bottles in a microwave oven poses a danger to the baby. In a section on “Microwave Alert,” the authors warn that the practice “has caused scalding when it has been done improperly” because the oven “heats the milk unevenly.” Even though the bottle itself may feel deceptively cool, “different parts of the milk will be different temperatures,” say the authors. Similar warnings are given about warming jars of baby food in microwave ovens. Always test the temperature of the milk or food before feeding the baby. They also recommend telling baby-sitters and others of this precaution. And because “rapid heating could cause bacterial problems,” they caution against warming frozen breast milk in the microwave oven.
Safety Warning
Nuclear-reactor safety must be improved, says Dr. Robert Gale, a bone-marrow-transplant specialist who treated victims of the Chernobyl accident in the U.S.S.R. last year. He contends that there is a 25-percent chance of a nuclear-power-plant catastrophe of similar proportions happening somewhere in the next decade and a 50-percent chance in the United States. The German newspaper Hannoversche Allgemeine notes that statistics compiled so far indicate that “in the next 50 years an estimated 60,000 people all over the world would die of cancer as a result of the Soviet reactor meltdown . . . A further 5,000 would suffer serious genetic damage and up to 1,000 would suffer from health defects from birth as a result of Chernobyl.” Atomic energy, said Dr. Gale, could be beneficial only if handled properly.
Police Seals
While their contemporaries in Florida and California are trained to balance beach balls on their noses and do other entertaining tricks, some seals in New York City are currently being trained to do police work. The harbor seals are taught to retrieve handguns that are thrown into the water. Retrieving dumped contraband and drugs, taking underwater photographs, and finding submerged objects are also up for consideration. Stanley, a two-year-old harbor seal who already knows how to retrieve guns, has added unbuckling seat belts on submerged humans to his repertoire. Such ability is expected to be useful in recovering bodies from sea disasters.
Historic Births
Last October 1, a 48-year-old South African gave birth to her own three grandchildren. Pat Anthony acted as surrogate mother for her 25-year-old daughter, whose uterus was removed three years ago. Mrs. Anthony was implanted with four of her daughter’s eggs that were fertilized in a laboratory with sperm from her son-in-law. The triplets, two boys and a girl, were delivered by cesarean section at a Johannesburg hospital. This case not only adds fuel to the moral and legal controversy surrounding surrogacy but has also become a religious dilemma. Since the family are Roman Catholics, and the Vatican has condemned the practice of surrogate parenting, can church policy allow the babies to be baptized?
Presidential Pardon
An official statement released to the press from the Rwandese Republic Embassy in Canada announced that the president of Rwanda, General Major Juvénal Habyarimana, has granted “a total suspension of sentences” for all Jehovah’s Witnesses who were incarcerated for religious reasons. According to the embassy statement, this action took place on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the independence of Rwanda. Following their release, the Witnesses were allowed to return to their homes and to resume their secular work. It is reported that local officials who failed to uphold the presidential pardon were reprimanded by the central government. |
Proclaimers (jv)
1993 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/jv | Chapter 21
How Is It All Financed?
IT IS obvious that the work carried on by Jehovah’s Witnesses requires money. Building Kingdom Halls, Assembly Halls, branch offices, factories, and Bethel homes involves money, and more is needed to maintain them. Expenses are also incurred in publishing and distributing literature for Bible study. How is all of this financed?
Unfounded speculations regarding this have been publicized by persons who oppose the work of Jehovah’s Witnesses. But a review of the evidence supports the answer that the Witnesses themselves give. What is that? Most of the work is done by volunteers, who neither expect nor desire financial return for their services, and organizational expenses are met by voluntary donations.
“Seats Free. No Collections”
As early as the second issue of the Watch Tower, in August 1879, Brother Russell stated: “‘Zion’s Watch Tower’ has, we believe, JEHOVAH for its backer, and while this is the case it will never beg nor petition men for support. When He who says: ‘All the gold and silver of the mountains are mine,’ fails to provide necessary funds, we will understand it to be time to suspend the publication.” Consistent with that, there is no begging for money in the literature of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
What is true of their literature is also true of their meetings. There are no emotional appeals for funds in their congregations or at their conventions. No collection plates are passed; no envelopes in which to put money are distributed; no letters of solicitation are sent to congregation members. Congregations never resort to bingo or raffles to raise funds. As early as 1894, when the Watch Tower Society sent out traveling speakers, it published this notice for the benefit of everyone: “Let it be understood from the first that collections or other solicitations of money are neither authorized nor approved by this Society.”
Thus, since very early in their modern-day history, handbills and other printed invitations to the public to attend the meetings of Jehovah’s Witnesses have carried the slogan “Seats Free. No Collections.”
Beginning early in 1914, the Bible Students rented theaters as well as other auditoriums and invited the public to these to see the “Photo-Drama of Creation.” This was a four-part presentation, eight hours in all, made up of slides and motion pictures synchronized with sound. During the first year alone, millions of persons saw it in North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. Although some theater owners charged for reserved seats, the Bible Students never requested an admission fee. And no collections were taken.
Later, for over 30 years, the Watch Tower Society operated radio station WBBR in New York City. Jehovah’s Witnesses also used the services of hundreds of other stations to broadcast programs of Bible education. But never did they use such broadcasts to beg for money.
How, then, are the donations that finance their activity obtained?
Supported by Voluntary Donations
The Bible sets the pattern. Under the Mosaic Law, there were certain contributions that were voluntary. Others were required of the people. The giving of a tithe, or tenth part, was one of the latter. (Ex. 25:2; 30:11-16; Num. 15:17-21; 18:25-32) But the Bible also shows that Christ fulfilled the Law, and God brought it to an end; so Christians are not bound by its regulations. They do not tithe, nor are they under obligation to give any other contribution of a specified amount or at a particular time.—Matt. 5:17; Rom. 7:6; Col. 2:13, 14.
Instead, they are encouraged to cultivate a spirit of generosity and liberality in imitation of the marvelous example set by Jehovah himself and by his Son, Jesus Christ. (2 Cor. 8:7, 9; 9:8-15; 1 John 3:16-18) Thus, with reference to giving, the apostle Paul wrote to the Christian congregation in Corinth: “Let each one do just as he has resolved in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” When informed of a need, this presented them with ‘a test of the genuineness of their love,’ as Paul explained. He also said: “If the readiness is there first, it is especially acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what a person does not have.”—2 Cor. 8:8, 12; 9:7.
In the light of this, the comment by Tertullian regarding meetings held by people who were endeavoring to practice Christianity in his day (c.155–after 220 C.E.) is interesting. He wrote: “Even if there is a chest of a sort, it is not made up of money paid in entrance-fees, as if religion were a matter of contract. Every man once a month brings some modest coin—or whenever he wishes, and only if he does wish, and if he can; for nobody is compelled; it is a voluntary offering.” (Apology, XXXIX, 5) During the centuries since then, however, the churches of Christendom have engaged in every conceivable money-raising scheme to finance their activities.
Charles Taze Russell refused to imitate the churches. He wrote: “It is our judgment that money raised by the various begging devices in the name of our Lord is offensive, unacceptable to him, and does not bring his blessing either upon the givers or the work accomplished.”
Rather than attempt to curry favor with those who had wealth, Brother Russell clearly stated, in harmony with the Scriptures, that the majority of the Lord’s people would be poor in this world’s goods but rich in faith. (Matt. 19:23, 24; 1 Cor. 1:26-29; Jas. 2:5) Instead of emphasizing the need for money in order to spread Bible truth, he focused attention on the importance of cultivating the spirit of love, the desire to give, and the desire to assist others, especially by sharing the truth with them. To those who had ability in making money and who suggested that by devoting themselves principally to business affairs they would have more to contribute financially, he said that it would be better to limit such activity and to give of themselves and of their time in spreading the truth. That is still the position taken by the Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses.a
In actual practice, how much do people give? What they do is a personal decision. However, in the matter of giving, it should be noted that Jehovah’s Witnesses do not think merely in terms of material possessions. At their district conventions in 1985-86, they discussed the subject “Honoring Jehovah With Our Valuable Things.” (Prov. 3:9) It was emphasized that these valuable things include not only material possessions but also physical, mental, and spiritual assets.
Back in 1904, Brother Russell pointed out that a person who has made a full consecration (or, dedication, as we now say) to God “has already given all that he has to the Lord.” Thus, he should now “consider himself as appointed by the Lord the steward of his own time, influence, money, etc., and each is to seek to use these talents to the best of his ability, to the Master’s glory.” He added that, guided by the wisdom from above, “in proportion as his love and zeal for the Lord grow day by day through a knowledge of the Truth and the attainment of its spirit, he will find himself giving more and more of time, more and more of his influence, and more and more of such means as are at his command, for the service of the Truth.”—Studies in the Scriptures, “The New Creation,” pp. 344-5.
During those early years, the Watch Tower Society had what it called the Tower Tract Fund. What was that? The following interesting details were set out on the back of stationery sometimes used by Brother Russell: “This fund consists of the free-will offerings of those who have been fed and strengthened by the ‘meat in due season’ which the above publications [made available by the Watch Tower Society], as God’s instrumentalities, are now laying before the consecrated saints, the world over.
“This fund is constantly employed in sending out, gratis, thousands of copies of ZION’S WATCH TOWER and OLD THEOLOGY TRACTS most suitable to new readers. It also assists in the spread of the paper-bound editions of the DAWN series, by aiding those disposed to circulate them—colporteurs and others. It also provides a ‘poor fund’ by which any of the Lord’s children who, through age, or sickness, or from other cause, are unable to subscribe for the WATCH TOWER are supplied free, upon condition of their sending a letter or card at the beginning of each year, stating their desire and inability.
“No one is ever asked to contribute to this fund: all donations must be voluntary. We remind our readers of the Apostle’s words (1 Cor. 16:1, 2) and corroborate them by saying that those who can give and do give to spread the truth are sure to be repaid in spiritual favors.”
The global activity of Jehovah’s Witnesses in proclaiming the good news of God’s Kingdom continues to be supported by voluntary donations. In addition to the Witnesses themselves, many appreciative interested persons count it a privilege to support this Christian work with their voluntary contributions.
Financing Local Places of Meeting
Each congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses has suitable contribution boxes where people can put whatever donations they desire—when they wish to do so and if they can. It is handled in a private manner so that others are not usually aware of what a person may do. It is between him and God.
There are no salaries to be paid, but it does cost money to maintain a meeting place. In order to fill that need, members of the congregation have to be informed. However, over 70 years ago, The Watch Tower made clear that with regard to contributions, there should be no pleading or urging—simply a plain, honest statement of the facts. In line with this viewpoint, congregation meetings do not include frequent discussions of financial matters.
Sometimes, however, there are special needs. It may be that plans are being made to refurbish or enlarge a Kingdom Hall or perhaps to build a new one. In order to ascertain what funds will be available, the elders may ask those in the congregation to write on slips of paper what they individually expect to be able to donate to the project or, possibly, to make available for a number of years. Additionally, the elders may ask that individuals or families write on slips what they feel able to contribute on a weekly or monthly basis, with Jehovah’s blessing. No names are signed. These are not promissory notes, but they do provide a basis for intelligent planning.—Luke 14:28-30.
In Tarma, Liberia, the congregation obtained needed funds in a somewhat different way. Some in the congregation raised rice for a Witness in his field while he devoted a full year to cutting trees and hand-sawing planks, which were then sold to obtain money for their building project. In Paramaribo, Suriname, although materials had to be purchased, a congregation needed no money for land, because a Witness donated her land for the Kingdom Hall and only asked that her home be moved to the back of the property. The extremely high real-estate prices in Tokyo, Japan, made it difficult for congregations there to obtain land on which to build Kingdom Halls. In order to help solve this problem, several families offered the use of the land on which their own homes were built. They simply requested that after their home was replaced by a new Kingdom Hall, they be provided with an apartment upstairs.
As congregations grew and divided, those located within a given area often tried to assist one another in order to provide suitable Kingdom Halls. In spite of that generous spirit, something else was needed. Property values and building costs skyrocketed, and individual congregations often found it impossible to handle these. What could be done?
At the “Kingdom Unity” District Conventions in 1983, the Governing Body outlined an arrangement that called for application of the principle set out at 2 Corinthians 8:14, 15, which encourages letting the surplus of those who have it offset the deficiency of others so that “an equalizing might take place.” Thus those who have little will not have so little that they are hindered in their efforts to serve Jehovah.
Each congregation was invited to arrange for a box marked “Contributions for Society Kingdom Hall Fund.” Everything put into that box would be used only for that purpose. Money contributed throughout the country would thus be made available to offset the deficiency of congregations that badly needed a Kingdom Hall but could not arrange for it on the terms that local banks required. After a careful survey to ascertain where the need was really the most pressing, the Society began to make that money available to congregations that needed to build or otherwise acquire new Kingdom Halls. As more contributions were received and (in lands where it could be done) loans were repaid, still more congregations could be assisted.
This arrangement went into operation first in the United States and Canada, and since then it has spread to over 30 lands in Europe, Africa, Latin America, and the Far East. By 1992, in just eight of these lands, money had already been made available to assist in providing 2,737 Kingdom Halls, accommodating 3,840 congregations.
Even in lands where this arrangement was not in operation, but where there was urgent need for Kingdom Halls that could not be financed locally, the Governing Body endeavored to make other arrangements to see that help was provided. Thus an equalizing took place, so that those who had little did not have too little.
Caring for Expansion of the World Headquarters
Operation of the world headquarters has also required funds. Following World War I, when the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society found it advantageous to print and bind its own books, an arrangement was worked out by which the needed machinery was bought in the name of private parties—fellow servants of Jehovah. Instead of paying a profit to a commercial company for manufacturing the books, the Society applied this amount each month to reducing the debt for the equipment. As the benefits of this were realized, the cost of much of the literature to the public was cut to about half. What was being done was to further the preaching of the good news, not to enrich the Watch Tower Society.
In a few years, it was evident that larger facilities were needed at the world headquarters in order to care for the global work of Kingdom preaching. Again and again, as the organization has grown and the preaching activity has been intensified, it has become necessary to add to these facilities. Rather than go to the banks for needed funds to enlarge and equip the headquarters offices and factories as well as the support facilities in and around New York, the Society has explained the need to the brothers. This has been done, not frequently, but only 12 times over a period of 65 years.
There has never been solicitation. Any who wanted to make donations were invited to do so. Those who chose to lend funds were assured that if an unexpected and urgent need arose, their loan would be repaid upon receipt of their request for it. Thus in its handling of matters, the Society endeavored to avoid working any hardship on individuals and congregations that kindly made funds available. The support given by Jehovah’s Witnesses by means of their contributions has always enabled the Society to repay all loans. Such contributions sent to the Society are not taken for granted. To the extent possible, these are acknowledged by letters and other statements of appreciation.
The work of the organization is not maintained by donations of a group of wealthy donors. Most of the contributions are from individuals who have only moderate means—many of them, very little of this world’s goods. Included are young children who want to share in this way in supporting the Kingdom work. The hearts of all these donors are moved by deep appreciation for Jehovah’s goodness and a desire to help others to learn of his gracious provisions.—Compare Mark 12:42-44.
Financing Expansion of Branch Facilities
As the Kingdom-preaching work has taken on greater proportions in various parts of the world, it has been necessary to enlarge the organization’s branch facilities. This is done under the direction of the Governing Body.
Thus, after reviewing recommendations from the branch in Germany, directions were given in 1978 to locate suitable property and then to build an entirely new complex. Could the German Witnesses care for the expenses involved? The opportunity was extended to them. At the completion of that project in 1984, at Selters, at the western edge of the Taunus Mountains, the branch office reported: “Tens of thousands of Jehovah’s Witnesses—rich and poor, young and old—contributed millions of dollars to help pay for the new facilities. Due to their generosity, the entire project could be completed without the necessity of borrowing money from worldly agencies or of having to go into debt.” Additionally, about 1 out of every 7 Witnesses in the Federal Republic of Germany had shared in the actual construction work at Selters/Taunus.
In some other lands, the local economy or the financial condition of Jehovah’s Witnesses has made it very difficult, even impossible, for them to build needed branch offices to supervise the work or factories in which to publish Bible literature in the local languages. The Witnesses within the country have been given opportunity to do what they can. (2 Cor. 8:11, 12) But lack of funds in a country is not allowed to hinder the spread of the Kingdom message there if needed finances are available elsewhere.
Thus, while local Witnesses do what they can, in a large part of the world a considerable portion of the money needed for branch buildings is provided by donations made by Jehovah’s Witnesses in other lands. That was true in connection with the building of the large complexes completed in South Africa in 1987, Nigeria in 1990, and the Philippines in 1991. It was also true of Zambia, where potential printing facilities were still under construction in 1992. It has likewise been true of many projects of smaller proportions, such as those completed in India in 1985; Chile in 1986; Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guyana, Haiti, and Papua New Guinea in 1987; Ghana in 1988; and Honduras in 1989.
In some lands, however, the brothers have been surprised at what they could accomplish locally with Jehovah’s blessing on their united efforts. In the early 1980’s, for example, the branch in Spain was making moves toward major enlargement of its facilities. The branch asked the Governing Body to provide the needed finances. But because of heavy expenditures in other directions at that time, such help was not then available. If given the opportunity, could the Spanish Witnesses, with their relatively low wages, provide sufficient funds for such an enterprise?
The situation was explained to them. Gladly they came forward with their jewels, rings, and bracelets so that these could be turned into cash. When one elderly Witness was asked whether she was sure she really wanted to donate the heavy gold bracelet that she had handed in, she replied: “Brother, it is going to do far more good paying for a new Bethel than it will on my wrist!” An older sister dug out a pile of musty bank notes that she had stashed away under the floor of her home over the years. Couples contributed the money they had saved for trips. Children sent their savings. A youngster who was planning to buy a guitar donated the money toward the branch project instead. Like the Israelites at the time that the tabernacle was built in the wilderness, the Spanish Witnesses proved to be generous and willinghearted contributors of all that was needed in a material way. (Ex. 35:4-9, 21, 22) Then they offered themselves—full-time, during vacations, on weekends—to do the work itself. From all over Spain they came—thousands of them. Other Witnesses from Germany, Sweden, Great Britain, Greece, and the United States, to mention a few, joined with them to complete what had at first seemed like an impossible task.
Is There a Profit From the Literature?
As of 1992, Bible literature was being published at the world headquarters and at 32 branches worldwide. Vast amounts of it were being provided for distribution by Jehovah’s Witnesses. But none of this was done for commercial gain. Decisions as to the languages in which literature would be printed and the countries to which it would be shipped were made not for any commercial advantage but solely with a view to accomplishing the work that Jesus Christ assigned to his followers.
As early as July 1879, when the very first issue of the Watch Tower was published, it carried a notice saying that those too poor to pay for a subscription (then only 50¢, U.S., per year) could have it free if they would simply write to make request. The principal objective was to help people learn about Jehovah’s grand purpose.
To that end, since 1879 tremendous amounts of Bible literature have been distributed to the public without charge. In 1881 and thereafter, approximately 1,200,000 copies of Food for Thinking Christians were distributed gratis. Many of these were in the form of a 162-page book; others, in newspaper format. Scores of tracts of varying sizes were published during the years that followed. The vast majority of these (literally hundreds of millions of copies) were distributed without charge. The number of tracts and other publications given out kept growing. In 1915 alone, the report showed that 50,000,000 copies of tracts in some 30 languages were supplied for worldwide distribution without charge. Where was the money for all of this coming from? Largely from voluntary donations to the Society’s Tract Fund.
There was also literature that was offered for a contribution during the early decades of the Society’s history, but the suggested contribution was kept as low as possible. This literature included bound books of 350 to 744 pages. When the Society’s colporteurs (as full-time preachers were then known) offered these to the public, they stated the amount suggested as a contribution. Their objective, however, was not to make money but to get vital Bible truths into the hands of the people. They wanted people to read the literature and benefit from it.
They were more than willing to give a person literature (making a contribution for it themselves) if the householder was destitute. But it had been observed that many people were more inclined to read a publication if they gave something for it, and what they contributed could, of course, be used to print more literature. Yet, emphasizing the fact that the Bible Students were not seeking financial gain, the Society’s service instruction sheet, the Bulletin, of October 1, 1920, said: “Ten days after having delivered the booklet [one that consisted of 128 pages], call again upon the parties and ascertain whether they have read it. If they have not, ask that they return the book and refund their money. Tell them that you are not a book agent, but that you are interested in giving this message of comfort and cheer to everybody, and that if they are not sufficiently interested in a fact that so closely concerns them . . . , you wish to put the book into the hands of someone who will be interested.” Jehovah’s Witnesses have not continued to use that method, for they have found that other family members sometimes pick up the literature and benefit from it; but what was done back then does highlight the real objective of the Witnesses.
For many years they referred to their distribution of literature as “selling.” But this terminology caused some confusion, and so beginning in 1929, it was gradually dropped. The term did not really fit their activity, for their work was not commercial. Their objective was not money-making. Their entire motivation was to preach the good news of God’s Kingdom. Because of this, in 1943 the Supreme Court of the United States held that Jehovah’s Witnesses could not be required to obtain a commercial peddling license before distributing their literature. And the Canadian judiciary thereafter quoted with approval the reasoning set out by the U.S. Supreme Court in that decision.b
In many lands Jehovah’s Witnesses have regularly offered their literature on a contribution basis. The suggested contribution has been so low, compared to other books and magazines, that many people have offered to contribute more. But great effort has been made on the part of the organization to keep the suggested contribution down so that it will be within the means of the many millions of people who have very little of this world’s goods but who are grateful to receive a Bible or Bible literature. The objective in suggesting a contribution, however, has not been the enrichment of the organization of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Where the law construes any distribution of Bible literature as commercial if the distributor suggests a contribution for the literature, Jehovah’s Witnesses gladly leave it with anyone who shows sincere interest and promises to read it. Those who want to donate something to further the work of Bible education may give whatever they like. That is done, for example, in Japan. In Switzerland, until recently, contributions for literature were accepted, but only up to a stated sum; so if householders wanted to give more, the Witnesses simply returned it or provided the householder with additional literature. Their desire was, not to collect money, but to preach the good news of God’s Kingdom.
In 1990, because of highly publicized financial scandals in some of Christendom’s religions, coupled with an increasing tendency by governments to classify religious activity as a commercial enterprise, Jehovah’s Witnesses made some adjustments in their activity in order to avoid any misunderstanding. The Governing Body directed that in the United States, all literature that the Witnesses distribute—Bibles, as well as tracts, booklets, magazines, and bound books explaining the Bible—be provided to people on the sole precondition that they read it, no contribution being suggested. The activity of Jehovah’s Witnesses is in no way commercial, and this arrangement served to further differentiate them from religious groups that commercialize religion. Of course, most people are aware that it costs money to print such literature, and those who appreciate the service being performed by the Witnesses may want to donate something to help with the work. It is explained to such persons that the worldwide work of Bible education conducted by Jehovah’s Witnesses is supported by voluntary donations. Donations are gladly accepted, but they are not solicited.
Those who share in the field ministry are not doing it for financial gain. They donate their time, and they pay for their own transportation. If someone shows interest, they arrange to return each week, absolutely free of charge, to give personal instruction in the Bible. Only love for God and for their fellowman could motivate them to continue to engage in such activity, often in the face of indifference and outright opposition.
Funds received at the world headquarters of Jehovah’s Witnesses or at its branch offices are used, not for the enrichment of the organization or any individual, but to further the preaching of the good news. Back in 1922, The Watch Tower reported that because of the economic situation in Europe, books printed there for the Society were being paid for chiefly by the American office and were often being left with the people at less than cost. Although Jehovah’s Witnesses now operate printing establishments in many lands, some countries to which the literature is shipped are not able to send any funds out of the country to cover the cost. The generous voluntary donations of Jehovah’s Witnesses in lands where they have sufficient resources help to offset the lack in countries where they have little.
The Watch Tower Society has always endeavored to use all the resources at its disposal to further the preaching of the good news. In 1915, as president of the Society, Charles Taze Russell said: “Our Society has not sought to lay up earthly riches, but has been, rather, a spending institution. Whatever God’s providence sent in to us without solicitation we have sought to spend as wisely as possible in harmony with the Word and Spirit of the Lord. Long ago we announced that when the funds would cease, the activities of the Society would cease proportionately; and that as the funds increased, the Society’s activities would be enlarged.” The Society has continued to do exactly that.
Right down to the present, the organization uses available funds to send out traveling overseers to fortify the congregations and to encourage them in their public ministry. It continues to send missionaries and graduates of the Ministerial Training School to lands where there is special need. It also uses whatever funds are available to send special pioneers into areas where little or no preaching of the Kingdom message has yet been done. As reported in the 1993 Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses, during the previous service year, $45,218,257.56 (U.S.) was expended in these ways.
Not Serving for Personal Gain
No financial profit is made by any members of the Governing Body, officers of its legal agencies, or other prominent persons associated with the organization as a result of the work of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Regarding C. T. Russell, who served as president of the Watch Tower Society for over 30 years, one of his associates wrote: “As a means of determining whether his course was in harmony with the Scriptures, and also as a means of demonstrating his own sincerity, he decided to test the Lord’s approval as follows: (1) Devote his life to the cause; (2) Invest his fortune in the promulgation of the work; (3) Prohibit collections at all meetings; (4) Depend on unsolicited contributions (wholly voluntary) to continue the work after his fortune was exhausted.”
Instead of using religious activity to acquire material wealth for himself, Brother Russell spent all his resources in the Lord’s work. After his death it was reported in The Watch Tower: “He devoted his private fortune entirely to the cause to which he gave his life. He received the nominal sum of $11.00 per month for his personal expenses. He died, leaving no estate whatsoever.”
With regard to those who would carry on the work of the Society, Brother Russell stipulated in his will: “As for compensation, I think it wise to maintain the Society’s course of the past in respect to salaries—that none be paid; that merely reasonable expenses be allowed to those who serve the Society or its work in any manner.” Those who would serve at the Society’s Bethel homes, offices, and factories, as well as its traveling representatives, were to be provided merely food, shelter, and a moderate amount for expenses—enough for immediate needs but “no provision . . . for the laying up of money.” That same standard applies today.
Those who are accepted for special full-time service at the world headquarters of Jehovah’s Witnesses all subscribe to a vow of poverty, as have all the members of the Governing Body and all the other members of the Bethel family there. This does not mean that they live a drab life, without any comforts. But it does mean that they share, without partiality, the modest provisions of food, shelter, and expense reimbursement that are made for all in such service.
Thus the organization carries on its work with complete dependence on the help that God gives. Without compulsion but as a real spiritual brotherhood that reaches into all parts of the earth, Jehovah’s Witnesses gladly use their resources to accomplish the work that Jehovah, their grand heavenly Father, has given them to do.
[Footnotes]
a See The Watchtower, September 1, 1944, page 269; December 15, 1987, pages 19-20.
b Murdock v. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, 319 U.S. 105 (1943); Odell v. Trepanier, 95 C.C.C. 241 (1949).
[Blurb on page 340]
“Solicitations of money are neither authorized nor approved by this Society”
[Blurb on page 342]
Principal emphasis is on the value of sharing the truth with others
[Blurb on page 343]
A plain, honest statement of the facts
[Blurb on page 344]
Congregations help one another to obtain needed Kingdom Halls
[Blurb on page 345]
Most of the contributions are from individuals who have only moderate means
[Blurb on page 348]
Much literature distributed without charge—who pays for it?
[Blurb on page 349]
They gladly leave literature with anyone who shows sincere interest and promises to read it
[Blurb on page 350]
What is done with money that is donated?
[Blurb on page 351]
“He devoted his private fortune entirely to the cause to which he gave his life”
[Box on page 341]
God Does Not Beg
“He who said, ‘If I were hungry I would not tell thee, for the world is mine and the fullness thereof. . . . I will take no bullock out of thy house, nor he goats out of thy folds; for every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills’ (Psa. 50:12, 9, 10), is able to carry on his great work without begging for funds either from the world or from his children. Neither will he compel his children to sacrifice anything in his service, nor will he accept anything from them short of a cheerful, free-will offering.”—“Zion’s Watch Tower,” September 1886, p. 6.
[Box on page 347]
Donations Were Not Always in the Form of Money
Witnesses in the far north of Queensland prepared and sent to the Watch Tower construction site in Sydney, Australia, four semitrailer loads of prime timber that then had an estimated value of between A$60,000 and A$70,000.
When the Watch Tower factory at Elandsfontein, South Africa, was being enlarged, an Indian brother phoned and asked that they please pick up a donation of 500 bags (110 pounds [50 kg] each) of cement—at a time when there was a scarcity of it in the country. Others offered their trucks for use by the Society. An African sister paid a firm to deliver 20 cubic yards [15 cu m] of building sand.
In the Netherlands when new branch facilities were being put up at Emmen, huge quantities of tools and work clothing were donated. One sister, though very ill, knitted a pair of woolen stockings for each of the workers during the winter period.
To build a new branch office and potential printery at Lusaka, Zambia, construction materials were purchased with funds provided by Witnesses in other lands. Materials and equipment that were not available locally were trucked into Zambia as donations to the work there.
A Witness in Ecuador, in 1977, donated an 84-acre [34 ha] piece of land. Here an Assembly Hall and a new branch complex were constructed.
Local Witnesses in Panama opened their homes to accommodate volunteer workers; some who owned buses provided transportation; others shared in providing 30,000 meals that were served at the construction site.
For workers at the project in Arboga, Sweden, one congregation baked and sent 4,500 buns. Others sent honey, fruit, and jam. A farmer near the building site, though not a Witness, provided two tons of carrots. |
“Eternal Purpose” (po)
1974 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/po | Chapter 14
Triumph for the “Eternal Purpose”
1. Who have been spirit opposers of God’s “eternal purpose,” and since when?
GOD’S “eternal purpose” has its opposers in heaven and on earth. They have fought and still keep on fighting to prevent the ultimate triumph of that “eternal purpose.” When at the Garden of Eden God announced his “eternal purpose” in the hearing of the Great Serpent and of the sinful Adam and Eve, God said to the Serpent: “And I shall put enmity between you and the woman and between your seed and her seed. He will bruise you in the head and you will bruise him in the heel.” (Genesis 3:15) Since then Satan the Devil and those disobedient angels who have become demons have unitedly fought against God’s stated purpose.
2. (a) By what means were devilish attempts made to destroy the newly created “chosen race”? (b) What did Peter write in warning against the invasion by corruptive elements?
2 After the spiritual “Israel of God” was founded on its twelve apostolic foundations on the festival day of Pentecost of 33 C.E., there were devilish attempts made on earth to destroy this newly created “chosen race,” this “royal priesthood,” this “holy nation.” (1 Peter 2:9) First, violent persecution was used, but failed. (Acts 7:59 through 8:4; 9:1-5, 21; 11:19) Then the corrupting of spiritual Israel in its teachings and way of life was attempted, and it wrought great havoc. The apostle Peter, writing to upholders of the Christian faith about the year 64 C.E., forewarned the first-century Christians of this coming invasion of spiritual corruption, saying:
“Prophecy was at no time brought by man’s will, but men spoke from God as they were borne along by holy spirit. However, there also came to be false prophets among the people, as there will also be false teachers among you. These very ones will quietly bring in destructive sects and will disown even the owner that bought them, bringing speedy destruction upon themselves. Furthermore, many will follow their acts of loose conduct, and on account of these the way of the truth will be spoken of abusively. Also, with covetousness they will exploit you with counterfeit words. But as for them, the judgment from of old is not moving slowly, and the destruction of them is not slumbering.”—2 Peter 1:21 through 2:3; see also Jude 4.
3. (a) How did Paul warn against corrupters of the congregation? (b) Who is the “man of lawlessness,” and when was this one revealed?
3 Likewise, the apostle Paul, when on his last journey to Jerusalem, warned the elders of the Christian congregation: “I know that after my going away oppressive wolves will enter in among you and will not treat the flock with tenderness, and from among you yourselves men will rise and speak twisted things to draw away the disciples after themselves.” (Acts 20:29, 30) Also, in a letter written earlier to the congregation in Thessalonica, Macedonia, he gave a warning of the breaking out of a religious rebellion in the congregation and of the revealing of the “man of lawlessness,” “the son of destruction.” Paul warned that “the mystery of this lawlessness is already at work.” This “lawless one” was to be a composite person, the clergy class of Christendom. (2 Thessalonians 2:3-9) This composite “man of lawlessness” was revealed in the fourth century C.E., when the Roman emperor, Constantine the Great, dealt with corrupt “bishops” and made their religion the state religion for the Roman Empire. Constantine set up an official clergy class. Thus Christendom came to be.
4. During the centuries since her founding, what record has Christendom’s clergy made for itself, and yet what does Christendom claim to be?
4 For the next sixteen centuries, down into this twentieth century, what kind of record has Christendom made for herself? A record of her clergymen involving themselves in politics, introducing more and more pagan teachings into their religious faith, accumulating wealth and power for themselves, oppressing their religious flocks, fomenting religious wars, cruel crusades and persecutions, establishing hundreds of confusing sects, blessing the armies of so-called “Christian” nations that were at war with one another, corrupting the morals of their church members, hiding God’s “eternal purpose” and really working against it, just like the earthly, visible “seed” of the Great Serpent. There was no real Christian unity within her. There were enormous stains of bloodguilt on her religious skirts. No cultivating of the fruits of God’s holy spirit within her, especially brotherly love! Rather, the “works of the flesh” abounded in her. (John 13:34, 35; Galatians 5:19-24) And yet, in spite of the condemning Bible evidence against her, she claimed to be the “Israel of God.”
5. Despite misrepresentation by Christendom, what has God been doing according to his “eternal purpose”?
5 Did all this misrepresenting of God and of his spiritual Israel block Him from successfully carrying out His “eternal purpose”? Not for a minute! He had foreseen all of this and had foretold it in his written Word, the Holy Bible. His new covenant with spiritual Israel continued in force, and, without doubt, he kept on selecting and preparing spiritual Israelites for a share with the Messiah Jesus in the promised heavenly kingdom.
6. Into what condition would the last ones of the 144,000 on earth be brought?
6 Since the number of spiritual Israelites who are sealed for joint heirship with the Messiah in the heavenly kingdom is limited to 144,000, according to Revelation 7:4-8; 14:1-3, the time must come when the last ones needed to complete the full number of the Kingdom class would be found here on earth. Instead of being religiously divided like the religious sects of Christendom, they would be gathered together into a spiritual unity in spite of race, color, nationality or tribal ties. As they are no part of this world, they would be harvested out from this world.—John 17:14-23.
7. To what did Jesus liken that gathering work, and where did he locate it?
7 The Lord Jesus, when explaining to his apostles the mysteries or “sacred secrets of the kingdom,” spoke of this final gathering of these “sons of the kingdom” as being a “harvest.” He indicated when this spiritual “harvest” would take place, when he said:
“The harvest is a conclusion of a system of things, and the reapers are angels. Therefore, just as the weeds are collected and burned with fire, so it will be in the conclusion of the system of things. The Son of man will send forth his angels, and they will collect out from his kingdom all things that cause stumbling and persons who are doing lawlessness, and they will pitch them into the fiery furnace. There is where their weeping and the gnashing of their teeth will be. At that time the righteous ones will shine as brightly as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Let him that has ears listen.”—Matthew 13:11, 39-43.
8. Was this spiritual “harvest” the only thing to happen during the “conclusion of the system of things,” and in reply to what question did Jesus furnish the answer?
8 At that “conclusion of the system of things” other things were foretold to happen besides this harvesting of the “sons of the kingdom.” (Matthew 24:31) All these other things together with the spiritual harvest would be earmarks to identify the time in which we are living, that it is the foretold “conclusion of the system of things.” The Messiah Jesus, the prophet like Moses, enumerated these things in answer to the question of his apostles directly after he had foretold the destruction of the temple of Jerusalem. They asked him: “When will these things be, and what will be the sign of your presence [Greek: parousia] and of the conclusion of the system of things?”—Matthew 23:37 through 24:3.
9. What did Jesus predict for then, and when did Jerusalem’s “time of the end” begin and conclude?
9 In the account in Matthew 24:4-22 we can read how, in answer, Jesus predicted again the destruction of Jerusalem, also the wars, famines, earthquakes, persecution upon his faithful disciples, increasing lawlessness and cooling off of love, preaching activity by his disciples, and their flight from Judea and Jerusalem after seeing the holy place desecrated by the “disgusting thing that causes desolation.” This was to occur within “this generation” of which he and his apostles were a part. This meant that Jerusalem and the system of things based upon it as a national religious center were in their “time of the end.” That “time of the end” began in the year 29 C.E., when John the Baptizer began preaching, “Repent, for the kingdom of the heavens has drawn near,” and then baptized Jesus, and it ended in the year 70 C.E. with the desolating of Jerusalem and its temple and the disappearance of the Aaronic priesthood. Jewry and Judaism have never been the same since.
THE SIGN OF THE “TIME OF THE END”
10. In his prophecy, how did Jesus use first-century Jerusalem, so that his prophecy applies today?
10 However, Jesus spoke of many things to happen after Jerusalem was destroyed, adding: “And Jerusalem will be trampled on by the nations, until the appointed times of the nations are fulfilled.” (Luke 21:20-24) It is evident, after careful study of Jesus’ complete prophecy, as found in Matthew, chapters twenty-four and twenty-five, Mark, chapter thirteen, and Luke, chapter twenty-one, that Jesus was also using first-century Jerusalem as a prophetic picture of its modern-day counterpart, Christendom, and the system of things that obtained among the Jews scattered world wide as a picture of the present-day worldwide system of things, dominated by Christendom. So Jesus’ prophecy on the “conclusion of the system of things” applies also today, for its complete fulfillment. Why do we say “today”? Do we mean that we today are living in the foretold “conclusion of the system of things”? Yes!
11. In what period of time does this world find itself, this corresponding with what previous similar periods?
11 The world today is living in its “time of the end.” Let us remember how, when that “ancient world,” the “world of ungodly people,” “the world of that time,” of Noah’s time, was deluged with a global flood, its “time of the end” began one hundred and twenty years before the watery cataclysm of 2370 B.C.E. (2 Peter 2:5; 3:6; Genesis 6:1-3; Matthew 24:37-39) Before the destruction of Jerusalem in 607 B.C.E. by the Babylonians, God spoke to the last Davidic king on the throne of Jerusalem, Zedekiah, and referred to the “time of the error of the end.” Jerusalem’s “time of the end” was then forty years long, beginning when God raised up Jeremiah to be his prophet in the thirteenth year of the reign of Josiah. (Ezekiel 21:25; Jeremiah 1:1, 2; Ezekiel 4:6, 7) Jerusalem of the first century C.E. also had its “time of the end,” of forty-one years (29-70 C.E.)—Luke 19:41-44; 1 Thessalonians 2:16.
12. Jehovah used what prophet to mention the “time of the end,” and what, since 1914 C.E., shows we are in that period?
12 Many years after the first destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians, God’s angel spoke to the prophet Daniel about the “time of the end” that was to come upon the worldwide system of things. (Daniel 11:35 through 12:4) We have been in that “time of the end” since the year 1914 C.E. We say this, not just because in that year World War I burst forth and introduced an age of violence and war potential that threatens the wiping out of the entire human race. It is true also that since that momentous year Jesus’ prophecy concerning the “sign” of the conclusion of the system of things has been undergoing a complete fulfillment. And since this “conclusion of the system of things” will culminate in what Jesus called “great tribulation such as has not occurred since the world’s beginning until now, no, nor will occur again,” it means that we are nearing the complete end of this system of things, and with it the destruction of a “world of ungodly people.”—Matthew 24:21.
13. (a) How does Matthew 24:14 show that Christ’s “presence” was to be in connection with God’s kingdom? (b) Since Christ gave no date, what problem arises?
13 Yet, the reason why the year 1914 C.E. is to be fixed upon is that in that year the “presence” (parousia) of the Lord Jesus in Messianic kingdom authority began. That his invisible “presence” was true in this respect is indicated by a particular thing that he said in answering the apostles’ question about the “sign of your presence.” It was this, as recorded in Matthew 24:14: “And this good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations; and then the end will come.” In answering his apostles, Jesus gave no date, and yet the unfolding of the “sign” from the year 1914 forward till now seals that year as the time of the birth of God’s Messianic kingdom in the hands of his Son Jesus Christ in the heavens. But there is another way of arriving at that date to verify that it is the foreordained time for the Kingdom’s birth with Christ’s “presence” in it. What is that other way of verifying 1914?
14. When did the Gentile Times mentioned by Jesus begin, and past what event were they to continue?
14 In his prophecy as to “When will these things be?” he foretold the impending destruction of Jerusalem and added: “And Jerusalem will be trampled on by the nations, until the appointed times of the nations are fulfilled.” (Luke 21:20-24) Those “appointed times of the [non-Jewish, Gentile] nations” began back in 607 B.C.E. when the Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem and overthrew the reigning descendant of King David, the heir of the divine covenant for an everlasting kingdom. These Gentile Times, as they are often called, continued on down to Jesus’ day and were to continue on after the second destruction of the holy city. It is a fact that after seventy years of desolation of Jerusalem and the land of Judah a faithful remnant of the Jews returned from exile in the land of Babylon and rebuilt Jerusalem and other cities in the long-desolated land. But that did not mean that Jerusalem had ceased to be trampled on by the Gentile nations, first by the Babylonians and next by the Medo-Persians who conquered Babylon.
15. (a) Why did the Gentile Times continue on after Jerusalem was rebuilt in 537 B.C.E.? (b) Why did those Times continue on after Jesus’ trial before Pontius Pilate?
15 Why not? Because, with the rebuilding of Jerusalem from 537 B.C.E. forward, the throne and Messianic kingdom of the royal line of David were not restored to Jerusalem. Jerusalem was now in a province of the Medo-Persian Empire and was under the domination of Darius the Mede and Cyrus the Great, the Persian. So what Jerusalem had stood for since its capture by King David in the year 1070 B.C.E. was still trampled on, namely, Jerusalem’s rank as capital of the Messianic kingdom of the sons and successors of King David. The Maccabean kingdom of Levite rulers (104-63 and 40-37 B.C.E.) did not alter that fact. Then, when Jesus the “son of David” came and presented himself as the one anointed with God’s spirit, the majority of the Jewish religious leaders and their followers did not want him as their Messiah and King. They cried out to the Roman Governor Pontius Pilate: “We have no king but Caesar.” (John 19:15) So onward the Gentile Times marched, and the right to Messianic kingship was trampled on still further.
16, 17. (a) Because of fulfillment of Jesus’ prophecy, we say that the Gentile Times were fulfilled when? (b) To what ancient king did God reveal the time length, and how had God used this king?
16 However, Jesus said: “Until the appointed times of the nations are fulfilled.” How long after Babylon overturned the throne of King David at Jerusalem in 607 B.C.E. were those times of Gentile interference with God’s Messianic kingdom to continue?
17 Now, of course, after seeing what has happened in fulfillment of Jesus’ prophecy since World War I broke out, we can confidently answer, Until the fulfillment of the Gentile Times in 1914 C.E. Yes, but, more than that, in the days of King Nebuchadnezzar, who destroyed Jerusalem in 607 B.C.E., God revealed that he had marked off how long those Gentile Times as then beginning would run without interference from the Messianic kingdom of God. God indicated that it would be for seven symbolic “times.” The dream in which God revealed this time period to Nebuchadnezzar was interpreted by the prophet Daniel. (Daniel 4:16, 23, 25, 32) God used Nebuchadnezzar like a woodcutter to chop down the earthly expression of God’s kingdom at Jerusalem in 607 B.C.E. The stump of that symbolic “tree” was to be banded and not allowed to sprout and produce a new tree until after the end of “seven times.”
18. (a) During those Gentile Times the kingdom rule that should have been exercised by David’s royal house was exercised by whom, and in what kind of way? (b) How was restoration of Messianic rule pictured?
18 In the meantime, during those “seven times,” the Gentile world rulers would exercise the rulership that really belonged to the royal line of King David due to God’s covenant with him for an everlasting kingdom. But those Gentile rulers wielded that power of rulership in a very untheocratic way, in an anti-Messianic way, as with an unreasonableness like that displayed by Nebuchadnezzar during his seven years of madness. But just as a sane Nebuchadnezzar was restored to rulership at the end of those seven years, so the Messianic feature of God’s kingdom was to be restored at the close of the “seven times” of Gentile world domination. Then the royal stump was to be unbanded, and from its roots a new tree of rulership was to grow up.—Daniel 4:1-37.
19. (a) The Gentile Times numbering seven, what would be the length of each “time”? (b) About what time of the year did those Times begin, and about what time of year end?
19 Now if we measure back from 1914 C.E. to 607 B.C.E., it amounts to 2,520 years. If, next, we take the number of the “times,” seven, and divide it into 2,520 years, it results in 360 years. That is the length of a prophetic “time” in the Holy Scriptures. (Revelation 12:6, 14; compare Revelation 11:2, 3.) The seven literal years of Nebuchadnezzar’s madness illustrated those “seven times” of 2,520 years, a year being represented by each day of a prophetic “time” of 360 days. (Ezekiel 4:6; Numbers 14:34) The symbolic “seven times” began when the armies of Babylon left Jerusalem and the land of Judah a desolation, with no governor to replace the murdered Governor Gedaliah in the land, about the middle of the lunar month of Tishri. So they would end about that time of the year in 1914 C.E., or about October 4/5, 1914.
20. What would be meant when the reverse took place in 1914 C.E. of what occurred in 607 B.C.E.?
20 At this latter time the reverse was to occur of what occurred in Tishri of 607 B.C.E., when the Gentile Times started. The land of Judah was left a desolate waste without a temple at Jerusalem, without “Jehovah’s throne” there with an anointed descendant of King David seated thereon. (1 Chronicles 29:23) This meant that in early autumn of 1914 C.E. the trampling by the Gentile nations on the Messianic kingship was to cease and the Messianic kingdom was to be born, not at earthly Jerusalem, but up in heaven where the Son and Lord of King David now sat at the right hand of Jehovah God. (Psalm 110:1, 2) Then it was that the anointed one came “who has the legal right” and Jehovah God gave it to him.—Ezekiel 21:25-27; Daniel 7:13, 14.
21. How was the birth of God’s Messianic kingdom in heaven pictured, and what immediately followed?
21 World War I was already more than two months in progress when that marvelous event took place in the invisible heavens. In Revelation 12:1-5 that newborn Messianic kingdom is pictured as a male child to which God’s heavenly “woman” gave birth and which was caught up to God’s throne to share rulership with Him. So this majestic feature of God’s “eternal purpose” triumphed, but against superhuman opposition. On this we read:
“And war broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels battled with the dragon, and the dragon and its angels battled but it did not prevail, neither was a place found for them any longer in heaven. So down the great dragon was hurled, the original serpent, the one called Devil and Satan, who is misleading the entire inhabited earth; he was hurled down to the earth, and his angels were hurled down with him. And I heard a loud voice in heaven say:
“‘Now have come to pass the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ, because the accuser of our brothers has been hurled down, who accuses them day and night before our God! And they conquered him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their witnessing, and they did not love their souls even in the face of death. On this account be glad, you heavens and you who reside in them! Woe for the earth and for the sea, because the Devil has come down to you, having great anger, knowing he has a short period of time.’
“Now when the dragon saw that it was hurled down to the earth, it persecuted the woman that gave birth to the male child. . . . And the dragon grew wrathful at the woman, and went off to wage war with the remaining ones of her seed, who observe the commandments of God and have the work of bearing witness to Jesus.”—Revelation 12:7-17.
22. (a) Michael’s hurling of Satan and his demons out of heaven indicates what as to his identity? (b) How did Jesus foretell the persecutions that come upon the “remaining ones of [the woman’s seed”?
22 Yes, the archangel Michael makes his appearance again in heaven, and, as the “seed” of God’s “woman” who is destined to bruise the Serpent in the head, he wins the battle and hurls the original Serpent and his demon angels down to the earth. In his anger the Great Serpent persecutes the “woman” by persecuting the “remaining ones of her seed” who found themselves on earth during and since World War I. In his prophecy Jesus foretold such persecution of his anointed followers as due to occur during the “conclusion of the system of things.” He said to his disciples:
“Then people will deliver you up to tribulation and will kill you, and you will be objects of hatred by all the nations on account of my name. . . . But he that has endured to the end is the one that will be saved.”—Matthew 24:9-13.
23. (a) The anointed remnant have identified themselves by obeying what command given through Jesus? (b) As early as when were they publishing the year for the Gentile Times to end?
23 So the proof is at hand, from the Bible and from world history, that the “time of the end” began in early autumn of 1914. In full harmony with this fact, the persecution goes on of the anointed remnant, who “observe the commandments of God and have the work of bearing witness to Jesus.” These are the ones who observe God’s commandment given in Jesus’ prophecy: “This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations.” (Matthew 24:14) This remnant of anointed ones have identified themselves on the pages of history since 1914 C.E. Before this year members of this anointed remnant had been earnestly studying God’s Word apart from Christendom. They put the Holy Bible ahead of man-made religious traditions. As early as 1876 they were publishing that the Gentile Times of 2,520 years would terminate in the year 1914. Events that have taken place from that year onward prove they were not wrong.
24. (a) During World War I, why did the remnant become an object of international hatred? (b) What postwar work did they undertake, and what name did they seek to publicize?
24 During World War I they became an object of hatred by all the nations and suffered severe persecution because they favored God’s Messianic kingdom and tried to keep free from bloodguilt with which Christendom was staining herself. In 1919, the first postwar year, they discerned their Christian obligation to proclaim as never before God’s Messianic kingdom, that had been set up in the heavens at the close of the Gentile Times in 1914. (Matthew 24:14) In the year 1925 their eyes of spiritual understanding were opened to see that the time had come for God to make a name for himself. (2 Samuel 7:23; Jeremiah 32:20; Isaiah 63:14; see The Watch Tower under date of August 1, 1925, page 226, column 2, paragraph 4; also September 15, 1925, page 280, paragraphs 41-43.) So now they bent themselves to the work of making known world wide the Bible name of the one living and true God and also His “eternal purpose that he formed in connection with the Christ, Jesus our Lord.”—Ephesians 3:11.
25. From what did the anointed remnant need to distinguish themselves, and so what did they embrace in 1931 C.E.?
25 So in the year 1931, without presumptuousness but with full justification for the step now taken, they embraced a name that would distinguish them from Babylon the Great, the world empire of false religion, out of which they had come in obedience to God’s command in Revelation 18:4. Yes, a name that would distinguish them even from Christendom with her hundreds of disunited sects and her worldliness and enormous bloodguilt. Indeed, a name that was based on Scripture (Isaiah 43:10, 12) and that would set their Christian work clearly before them. It was the name that has since become known world wide, a name both respected and hated, that is, Jehovah’s witnesses. To this name they live up!
A “GREAT CROWD” TO SURVIVE HAR–MAGEDON
26. From how long ago has God been taking out a “people for his name,” and is He lacking such a people today?
26 Was all of this a mere short-lived burst of religious fervor? Was it a mere irrelevant accident? Or was this according to the progressive purpose of God? Look at the outcome! Something purposely started back there at Jerusalem on that historic day of Pentecost of 33 C.E. when God poured out his holy spirit and the spirit-filled apostle Peter stood up and quoted the prophecy of Joel 2:28-32 and said to thousands of Jews: “And everyone who calls on the name of Jehovah will be saved.” There God began forming a “people for his name,” a spiritual Israel. (Acts 2:1-21; 15:14) A further step was taken at the end of the ‘seventieth week of years’ in 36 C.E., when God sent the apostle Peter to preach to uncircumcised Gentiles and poured out his holy spirit upon these believing non-Jews. Thus God enlarged the “people for his name” by baptizing and anointing Gentiles with holy spirit and adding them to his spiritual Israel. (Acts 10:1 through 11:18; 15:7-11) That occurred back there in the first century. And what about today, in this twentieth century? The facts of unassailable history prove that God has succeeded in still having a “people for his name”!
27. So what evidence have we today that God has stuck to his purpose in this regard, and blessings from this are now going to whom?
27 The presence today on earth of the final remnant of the spiritual “seed” of Abraham testifies that God is completing the full number of 144,000 spiritual Israelites under their Head, Jesus Christ. This despite all opposition from devils and men! His “eternal purpose that he formed in connection with the Christ” is triumphing—now! He is as unchangeably determined as ever to see his purpose through to its victorious realization in full in the near future. O what good this will mean for man! A “great crowd” of people who appreciate this fact is increasing world wide. Already they are receiving blessings through God’s remnant of the spiritual “seed” of Abraham.
28. Who is principally the “seed” of Abraham, but what shows whether the blessing is limited to only those who are members of the “seed”?
28 The ancient patriarch Abraham pictured Jehovah God. Jehovah himself is the Greater Abraham. His “seed” is principally his once-sacrificed Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Through his Principal One of the “seed” even all the members of spiritual Israel have been blessed. But does the blessing stop with them? No! God’s sworn promise to ancient Abraham was: “By means of your seed all nations of the earth will certainly bless themselves.” (Genesis 22:18; Acts 3:22-26) This “seed” includes more than Jesus Christ, for Abraham’s seed was to be like the stars and the sands of the seashore—innumerable. Hence, the “seed” includes all spiritual Israel. By means of this entire “seed” others will procure a blessing, yes, “all nations of the earth” outside the “seed,” outside spiritual Israel. So all mankind will be blessed by the “seed” of the Greater Abraham, Jehovah God, the heavenly Father of the spiritual “seed.” With this end in view there will be a resurrection of the dead under the Messianic kingdom of the “seed.”—Acts 24:15.
29, 30. (a) By whom were those now receiving blessings through the remnant of the “seed” foreshadowed in pre-Christian times? (b) How did Jesus refer to survivors of the coming “great tribulation”?
29 And who today of all nations are the ones who are receiving blessings through or in association with the “remnant” of the Abrahamic “seed”? According to God’s loving purpose, these were foreshadowed in olden time. By whom?
30 When, back in 1513 B.C.E., the liberated Israelites left Egypt after the first Passover night and thereafter passed through the Red Sea to safety on the shores of the Sinaitic Peninsula, there was a “vast mixed company” of non-Israelites that went along with them. (Exodus 12:38; Numbers 11:4) When, in 607 B.C.E., the Babylonian armies destroyed Jerusalem for the first time, there were the Ethiopian eunuch, Ebed-melech, and the non-Israelite Rechabites who survived the destruction of the holy city and its temple. (Jeremiah 35:1-19; 38:7-12; 39:16-18) And, on Nisan 11 of 33 C.E., when Jesus foretold the destruction that was to come upon Jerusalem in the year 70 C.E. and that was a prophetic type of the destruction of Christendom in our generation, he said:
“Then there will be great tribulation such as has not occurred since the world’s beginning until now, no, nor will occur again. In fact, unless those days were cut short, no flesh would be saved; but on account of the chosen ones those days will be cut short.”—Matthew 24:21, 22; Mark 13:19, 20.
31. What vision was the apostle John given of the “great crowd” that survives the “tribulation” with the spiritual remnant?
31 Besides the remnant of spiritual Israel, or “chosen ones,” there will be survivors of that approaching “great tribulation.” About the year 96 C.E., the aged apostle John was given a vision of these who go through the “great tribulation” in company with the “remnant” of spiritual Israel. Immediately after having a vision of the spiritual sealing of the 144,000 faithful members of spiritual Israel, John proceeds to say:
“After these things I saw, and, look! a great crowd, which no man was able to number, out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, dressed in white robes; and there were palm branches in their hands. And they keep on crying with a loud voice, saying: ‘Salvation we owe to our God, who is seated on the throne, and to the Lamb.’
“And in response one of the elders said to me: ‘These who are dressed in the white robes, who are they and where did they come from?’ So right away I said to him: ‘My lord, you are the one that knows.’ And he said to me: ‘These are the ones that come out of the great tribulation, and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. That is why they are before the throne of God; and they are rendering him sacred service day and night in his temple; and the One seated on the throne will spread his tent over them. They will hunger no more nor thirst anymore, neither will the sun beat down upon them nor any scorching heat, because the Lamb, who is in the midst of the throne, will shepherd them, and will guide them to fountains of waters of life. And God will wipe out every tear from their eyes.”—Revelation 7:9, 10, 13-17.
32. (a) When was the explanation that fits the facts of our day first published regarding this vision? (b) Why is it to be expected that those of this “great crowd” will not go to heaven and reign with the Lamb of God?
32 The explanation of the meaning of this vision that fits the facts of the day was published first in the year 1935 C.E., beginning with the Washington (D.C.) assembly of Jehovah’s Christian witnesses on May 31, 1935. The “great crowd” seen in the vision do not expect to go to heaven and to reign on the heavenly Mount Zion with the 144,000 spiritual Israelites. For example, in Revelation 14:1-3 we read that the only ones that stand with the Lamb of God upon the heavenly Mount Zion are the 144,000 spiritual Israelites. The “great crowd” are not seen standing there, and for a good reason. Only of the 144,000 is it said: “These were bought from among mankind as firstfruits to God and to the Lamb.” (Revelation 14:4, 5; James 1:18) Regarding the 144,000 who are “bought from among mankind,” we read these words addressed to the Lamb of God:
“You were slaughtered and with your blood you bought persons for God out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, and you made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God, and they are to rule as kings over the earth.”—Revelation 5:9, 10.
33. In whom, then, is the purpose of God’s new covenant realized?
33 So the purpose of God’s “new covenant” with spiritual Israel is realized in those 144,000, because the new covenant was meant to produce a “kingdom of priests and a holy nation,” a thing that the old Mosaic Law covenant did not produce. (Exodus 19:5, 6) The “great crowd” of Revelation 7:9-17 are not taken into that new covenant, but today they do associate with the “remnant” of spiritual Israelites who are in the new covenant.
34. Where do those of the “great crowd” expect to enjoy everlasting life, and what acknowledgment do they make of God and of his Lamb?
34 So the “great crowd” does not expect to go to heaven even after surviving the “great tribulation.” Those of the “great crowd” expect the Lamb of God to shepherd them here on earth after the “great tribulation” and guide them to everlasting life in a Paradise earth. They acknowledge the enthroned God of heaven as the Universal Sovereign over all creation. They acknowledge the Messiah Jesus as “the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world” and admit that they owe their salvation to God through his once “slaughtered” Lamb and, by faith and obedience, “they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.”
35. (a) Where in God’s “temple” do they serve Him continually, and why? (b) How do they express loyalty to God’s High Priest, and how did Jesus picture them in a parable?
35 They acknowledge only the Sovereign Lord Jehovah as their God. This explains why they are seen “rendering him sacred service day and night in his temple,” in the earthly courtyards of his spiritual temple, the Most Holy of which temple is in the holy heavens. (Hebrews 9:24) So the “great crowd” is now in contact with the remnant of the 144,000 spiritual Israelites who are prospective royal priests produced by the new covenant. In expression of their loyalty to the royal High Priest Jesus Christ, those of the “great crowd” are loyal to his spiritual brothers who are yet on earth. They do all the good that they can to Christ’s spiritual brothers, even joining them in preaching “this good news of the kingdom” world wide. These loyal ones are the “sheep” class whom Jesus described in his parable, saying:
“Then the king will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who have been blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the founding of the world. For I became hungry and you gave me something to eat; I got thirsty and you gave me something to drink. I was a stranger and you received me hospitably; naked, and you clothed me. I fell sick and you looked after me. I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous ones will answer him with the words, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty, and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and receive you hospitably, or naked, and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to you?’ And in reply the king will say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, To the extent that you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’
“And [the goat class] will depart into everlasting cutting-off, but the righteous ones into everlasting life.”—Matthew 25:34-40, 46.
36. When will the goat class of the parable be ‘cut off,’ and why?
36 Those who do not act like the “sheep” toward the spiritual brothers of the now reigning King Jesus Christ will be cut off in the oncoming “great tribulation,” for they are not in favor of the “seed” of God’s heavenly “woman” but are in favor of the “seed” of the “original serpent,” Satan the Devil. (Genesis 3:15; Revelation 12:9, 17) They yield to the influence and guidance of the “original serpent, . . . who is misleading the entire inhabited earth,” and so they will be found on the side of the “seed” of the Serpent when the “great tribulation” breaks out shortly.
37. In what period is this worldly system now since 1914, and so what is this generation facing, according to Daniel 12:1?
37 Since the birth of God’s Messianic kingdom in the heavens in the year 1914, this worldly system of things has been in its “time of the end.” This “time of the end” will soon culminate in the “great tribulation,” as foretold by Jesus Christ. This unparalleled tribulation was foretold by the prophet Daniel long before Jehovah God sent his firstborn heavenly Son to earth to be called Jesus. Hence, God’s angel worded the prophecy to Daniel in this way:
“And during that time Michael will stand up, the great prince who is standing in behalf of the sons of your people. And there will certainly occur a time of distress such as has not been made to occur since there came to be a nation until that time.”—Daniel 12:1; compare Matthew 24:21.
This generation of mankind is now facing that “time of distress.”
38. (a) What practicers of religion will survive destruction of Babylon the Great? (b) To settle what issue must the “war of the great day of God the Almighty” be fought?
38 During that “time of distress,” that “great tribulation,” antireligious political forces will destroy modern Babylon the Great, that is to say, the world empire of false religion that began with ancient Babylon. (Genesis 10:8-12; Revelation 17:1 through 18:24) Under God’s protection members of the “remnant” of spiritual Israel and of the “great crowd” will survive that destruction as practicers of the true religion. (James 1:27) Immediately after that failure on the part of the antireligious forces to wipe out the clean and undefiled “form of worship,” the pure religion, from the earth, there will come the “war of the great day of God the Almighty” at the place that is symbolically called Har–Magedon. (Revelation 16:14, 16) Why? Because the universal issue of Jehovah’s creation-wide sovereignty, which the remnant and the “great crowd” uphold, must yet be settled. This settling of the issue is all part of God’s “eternal purpose that he formed in connection with the Christ, Jesus our Lord,” who is the principal one in God’s promised “seed.”
39, 40. (a) Where will military confrontation over the issue take place, and whom do we see gathering there? (b) Who will prove to be superior there by victory?
39 The national sovereignties, upon which political governments of today insist, clash with the Creator’s Universal Sovereignty. The military confrontation over this paramount issue draws closer as this “time of the end” runs out. Do we, in the light of the Revelation’s foreviews of coming events, see the earthly kings and political rulers and their armies and backers being gathered to the Har–Magedon battlefield for fighting it out to a finish? Yes.
40 However, we also see by faith the heavenly King of kings, Jesus Christ, and his angelic armies speeding to that same battlefield, as if riding on white war horses. We can take God’s word for it; the war at Har–Magedon will culminate in victory for the forces of God the Almighty, and with destruction for all the man-made political systems and their officeholders, armies and patriotic supporters. The once Lamblike Jesus Christ will prove himself to be the King of kings, for Jehovah God will be at his right hand as a Fighter beside his King-Priest who is like Melchizedek.—Revelation 17:12-14; 19:11-21; Psalm 110:4, 5.
41. (a) After Har–Magedon, why will the “original serpent” be unable to war further against the remnant and the “great crowd”? (b) In what sense will now come the supreme moment for the “seed” of God’s “woman”?
41 That is the grand climax of the “woe for the earth and for the sea” into which the “original serpent” and his demon angels, since their being ousted from heaven, lead all deceived mankind! (Revelation 12:7-12) With all his earthly “seed” destroyed at Har–Magedon, the “original serpent” will be unable to wage further war against the “remaining ones of [the woman’s] seed” and the “great crowd” of fellow worshipers of the Sovereign Lord Jehovah. (Revelation 12:13, 17) Are the “original serpent” and his invisible demonic “seed” to be left on the loose in the vicinity of our earth down to which they have been ousted from heaven? No! For now comes the supreme moment for Jesus Christ the heavenly “seed” of God’s “woman,” who once was bruised at the heel by that murder-minded Serpent! The tables are turned, and now the “seed” of God’s heavenly “woman” must bruise the Serpent “in the head,” rendering him and his demonic “seed” as if they had not ever been! How?
42. (a) How, then, are the Serpent and his “seed” bruised? (b) What change then takes place as to heavenly ruling powers and earthly society?
42 By removing the Serpent and his demons from the neighborhood of the earth and hurling them into the “abyss” and sealing them up there, bound as with chains, for the next thousand years. Revelation 20:1-3 pictures this, not as a part of the war at Har–Magedon, but as a follow-up of that war. (Genesis 3:15; Romans 16:20; Luke 10:18-20) Thus the age-old Satanic “heavens” over earthly human society will be forever wiped out, and God’s Messianic “new heavens” will spread themselves in blessing over the new earthly human society. O the triumphant realization then of the words of the apostle Peter, who, after describing the destruction of the old symbolic heavens and earth, encourages all true worshipers of Jehovah God by saying: “There are new heavens and a new earth that we are awaiting according to his promise, and in these righteousness is to dwell.”—2 Peter 3:7-13; Revelation 20:11; 21:1; Isaiah 65:17. |
“All Scripture” (si)
1990 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/books/all-scripture-si | input Page/Publishers’ Page
“All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial”
“All Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight, for disciplining in righteousness, that the man of God may be fully competent, completely equipped for every good work.”—2 Timothy 3:16, 17.
Inside cover maps, front and back, are based on maps copyrighted by Pictorial Archive (Near Eastern History) Est. and Survey of Israel
Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are from the modern-language New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures—With References, 1984 Edition |
“All Scripture” (si)
1990 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/books/all-scripture-si | Front Endsheets
[Map on front endsheets]
(For fully formatted text, see publication)
MEDITERRANEAN SEA (GREAT SEA)
Carchemish
Haran
ASSYRIA
Nineveh
Asshur
Tigris River
BABYLONIA
Babylon
Euphrates River
CHALDEA
Ur
CASPIAN SEA
MEDIA
Ecbatana
PERSIA
Shushan
ELAM
PERSIAN GULF
Hamath
Riblah
SYRIA
Damascus
PHOENICIA
Sidon
Tyre
Mt. Hermon
BASHAN
GILEAD
AMMON
Mt. Carmel
CANAAN
Gaza
Jericho
Jerusalem
MOAB
EDOM
MIDIAN
Kadesh-barnea
Mt. Sinai
RED SEA
GOSHEN
EGYPT
Memphis
Nile River |
Ministry School (be)
2002 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/be | “Pay Attention to How You Listen”
LISTENING is an important factor in learning. It can also influence a person’s prospects for survival. When Jehovah was preparing to deliver his people from bondage in Egypt, he gave instructions to Moses, who told the older men of Israel what they must do in order to save their firstborn from the angel of death. (Ex. 12:21-23) The older men then conveyed this information to each household. This was done orally. The people had to listen carefully. How did they respond? The Bible reports: “All the sons of Israel did just as Jehovah had commanded Moses and Aaron. They did just so.” (Ex. 12:28, 50, 51) As a result, Israel experienced an awe-inspiring deliverance.
Today, Jehovah is preparing us for an even greater deliverance. Surely, the instruction he provides merits our earnest attention. Such instruction is given at the congregation meetings. Are you benefiting fully from such gatherings? Much depends on how you listen.
Do you retain highlights of the instruction given at the meetings? Is it your habit, week by week, to seek ways to apply in your own life the instruction given or to share it with others?
Prepare Your Heart
To benefit fully from the instruction provided at Christian meetings, we need to prepare our hearts. The importance of doing so is highlighted by what occurred during the reign of King Jehoshaphat of Judah. Jehoshaphat took a bold stand for true worship. He “removed the high places and the sacred poles from Judah” and commissioned princes, Levites, and priests to teach Jehovah’s Law to the people in all the cities of Judah. Still, “the high places themselves did not disappear.” (2 Chron. 17:6-9; 20:33) The worship of false gods and the unauthorized form of worship of Jehovah practiced at the pagan high places were so strongly entrenched that they were not eradicated.
Why did the instruction arranged by Jehoshaphat fail to have a lasting influence? The record continues: “The people themselves had not yet prepared their heart for the God of their forefathers.” They heard but failed to act accordingly. Perhaps they felt that traveling to the temple in Jerusalem to offer sacrifices was inconvenient. In any case, their hearts were not moved by faith.
To avoid drifting back to the ways of Satan’s world, we must prepare our hearts to receive the instruction that Jehovah is providing today. How? One important way is by prayer. We should pray that we will receive divine instruction with a thankful spirit. (Ps. 27:4; 95:2) This will help us to appreciate the efforts of our brothers who, though imperfect, make themselves available for use by Jehovah in teaching his people. It will move us to thank Jehovah not only for new things that we are learning but also for the opportunity to deepen our appreciation for matters that we have learned before. Having the desire to do God’s will fully, we pray: “Instruct me, O Jehovah, about your way. . . . Unify my heart to fear your name.”—Ps. 86:11.
Focus Your Attention
There are many obstacles to our listening attentively. Our minds may be crowded with anxieties. Noise and movement in the audience or outside the meeting place may distract us. Physical discomfort may make it difficult for us to concentrate. Those with young children often find that their attention is divided. What can help us to keep our attention focused on the program?
The eyes strongly influence where we focus our attention. Use your eyes to help you concentrate by keeping them on the speaker. When he cites a Bible text—even a familiar one—look it up, and follow along as he reads it. Resist the temptation to turn your head in the direction of every noise or movement. If the eyes are flooding your mind with distracting information, you will miss much of what is being presented from the platform.
If any “disquieting thoughts” make it difficult for you to focus on the program, pray to Jehovah for the calmness of mind and heart needed to pay attention. (Ps. 94:19; Phil. 4:6, 7) Do so repeatedly if necessary. (Matt. 7:7, 8) The congregation meetings are a provision from Jehovah. You can be confident that he wants you to benefit from them.—1 John 5:14, 15.
Listening to Talks
Likely, you can recall favorite points that you have heard in talks. Listening to a talk, however, involves more than just collecting outstanding points. A talk is like a journey. Although there may be interesting things to see along the way, the main thing is the destination, the objective. The speaker may be trying to lead the audience to a certain conclusion or move them to take some action.
Consider the speech Joshua made to the nation of Israel, recorded at Joshua 24:1-15. His objective was to move the people to take an uncompromising stand for true worship by completely separating themselves from the idolatry of the surrounding nations. Why was that so important? The prevalence of false worship posed a serious threat to the nation’s good standing with Jehovah. The people responded to Joshua’s plea by saying: “It is unthinkable, on our part, to leave Jehovah so as to serve other gods. . . . We shall serve Jehovah.” And they did!—Josh. 24:16, 18, 31.
As you listen to a talk, try to discern its objective. Consider how the points the speaker brings out contribute toward reaching that objective. Ask yourself what the information calls for you to do.
Listening During Discussions
The Watchtower Study, the Congregation Book Study, and portions of the Service Meeting are conducted as question-and-answer discussions of printed Bible-based material.
Listening during a discussion is, in certain respects, like sharing in a conversation. To benefit fully, listen carefully. Observe the direction in which the discussion is moving. Note how the conductor emphasizes the theme and the main points. Mentally respond to his questions. Listen as others explain and apply the material. Looking at the information from the viewpoint of others may give you fresh insight into a familiar subject. Contribute to the interchange by offering your own expressions of faith.—Rom. 1:12.
Studying the assigned material in advance will help you to be absorbed in the discussion and to follow the comments made by others. If your circumstances make it difficult to study the material thoroughly, at least take a few minutes to get an overview of the information prior to the meeting. Doing this will enable you to get more out of the discussion.
Listening at Assemblies and Conventions
At assemblies and conventions, there are likely to be more distractions than at congregation meetings. This can make listening a greater challenge. What can help us?
An important factor is getting enough rest at night. Before the program begins each day, fix the theme firmly in mind. Look at the input of each talk, and try to anticipate what will be presented. Make good use of your Bible. Many people find that taking brief notes of main points helps them to keep their minds focused on the program. Make a note of instruction that you plan to apply in your own life and ministry. Discuss a few points as you travel to and from the assembly site each day. This will help you to retain the information.
Training Children to Listen
Christian parents can help their children—even infants—to become “wise for salvation” by bringing them to congregation meetings, assemblies, and conventions. (2 Tim. 3:15) Since children vary in disposition and attention span, discernment is needed to help them learn to listen attentively. You may find the following suggestions to be helpful.
At home, arrange times for your young children to sit quietly and read or look at the pictures in our Christian publications. At the meetings, avoid using toys to keep young ones occupied. As was true in ancient Israel, so today young ones are present “in order that they may listen and in order that they may learn.” (Deut. 31:12) Where practical, some parents provide even very young children with personal copies of the publications being considered. As children get a little older, help them prepare to have a share in programs that call for audience participation.
The Scriptures reveal a close instruction between listening to Jehovah and obeying him. This can be seen in Moses’ words to the nation of Israel: “I have put life and death before you, the blessing and the malediction; and you must choose life . . . by loving Jehovah your God, by listening to his voice and by sticking to him.” (Deut. 30:19, 20) Today, listening to the instruction Jehovah provides and obediently applying it in our lives are essential to gaining God’s approval and the blessing of everlasting life. How vital, then, that we heed Jesus’ admonition: “Pay attention to how you listen”!—Luke 8:18.
TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE LISTENING
Pray for help to focus your attention on the program
Keep your eyes on the speaker
When scriptures are cited, look them up in your Bible, and follow along
Look for the objective of a talk
Mentally respond to questions asked; listen carefully to comments given
Take brief notes
Isolate points that you personally plan to apply |
Jehovah’s Day (jd)
2006 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/jd | Back Cover
JEHOVAH’S DAY . . . is a theme that resounds in the last 12 books of the Hebrew Scriptures. Many people are unfamiliar with those prophetic books, but in them you will find practical information that you can put to use in your daily life. Do you know how? And how can these same books help you to prepare for Jehovah’s great day? |
School Guidebook (sg)
1992 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/sg | Study 20
Counsel Builds Up
1, 2. Why do we seek counsel, and in what way do we receive it?
1 Worshipers of the true God have always looked to him unhesitatingly for guidance in all their ways. Confidently one of the Bible psalmists wrote: “With your counsel you will lead me.” (Ps. 73:24) And Jeremiah used these words in earnest prayer: “The whole matter is not too wonderful for you yourself, . . . the true God, the great One, the mighty One, Jehovah of armies being his name, great in counsel and abundant in acts.”—Jer. 32:17-19.
2 To his Christian worshipers today Jehovah’s counsel comes through his written Word and through the organization of his genuine servants. So those who enroll in the Theocratic Ministry School soon realize that the counsel they receive and the spirit in which it is given are governed by the fine principles of the Bible.
3-5. Explain how the Speech Counsel slip and the material in Studies 21 through 37 are designed to be used together.
3 Progressive counsel. As an aid both to students and to the school overseer, the Speech Counsel slip is provided. It lists thirty-six points that will help students develop their ability to present the truth effectively. Helpful information on each point will be found in a concise form in Studies 21 through 37 of this book, the specific study being indicated by number on the Speech Counsel slip. These Studies are specifically provided for use with the counsel slip. In most instances two or three qualities that are closely related are combined into a single Study, with the idea that it would be good to take them up at the same time.
4 It would be beneficial for those newly enrolled in the school to prepare well, having in mind the points listed on the Speech Counsel slip. For their first talk in the Theocratic Ministry School, the school overseer (or another counselor, if the enrollment is large) will offer only commendation on points the student handles well. Thereafter, the counselor will progressively concentrate on a counsel point that most needs attention to improve the student’s presentation, and he will specifically assign the student to work on that point in connection with his next talk. The counselor will inform each student when he is ready to move on to other points on the counsel slip.
5 Some student speakers may move ahead rather quickly, while others may need to work on just one point at a time rather than trying to handle the points covered in any one full Study. In fact, some students may be well advised to give several talks while working on one difficult point, so that they really master the speech quality involved before passing on to another.
6, 7. On what points will counsel be given by the school overseer?
6 The counsel given after each student talk should be kindly, designed to assist the student to keep on improving his speaking ability. Any counsel given to the speaker who delivers the instruction talk or Bible highlights, however, is offered privately after the school. Particularly would this speaker be counseled if he ran over the allotted time. The instruction talk speaker should strive to give a model talk in all respects, and private counsel may not be needed.
7 The points on which counsel is to be given will usually be those on which the student was previously counseled to work. Of course, if some other aspect of the talk is particularly good, the counselor may certainly include it in his commendation, but he will not mark the counsel slip on that point. The marks to be used are as follows: “W” (Work on this) when further work on the particular speech quality would be advantageous; “I” (Improved) when a student has already worked on a point at least once before and gives evidence of improvement but could advantageously work on it another time; “G” (Good) when the quality under consideration was demonstrated well enough to warrant moving on to a study of other speech qualities when preparing the next assignment in the school. When a student has a reading assignment, the counselor will offer points of counsel that best fit this type of assignment.
8-10. In marking the counsel slip, what should the school overseer have in mind so as to encourage progress?
8 Considerable discernment should be used by the school overseer to accomplish the most good by the counsel given. If a speaker is very new, what is needed more than anything else is encouragement. Other students, longer in the school, may be diligent in preparing their talks, giving attention to the speech qualities on which they are assigned to work, but they may have limited ability. In such cases, if a certain speech quality is manifested even to a limited extent, the school overseer may mark it “G” on the counsel slip, and allow the student to move on to another quality needing attention.
9 On the other hand, another speaker may have greater experience or more natural ability, but, perhaps due to the press of other work, he may not have taken the time to make a study of the speech qualities assigned and as a result he may not have done as well as he could. In such a case as this it will actually hinder the progress of the student if the school overseer marks “G” on the counsel slip and tells him to go on to something else. If the talk was of such a type that the assigned quality could have been manifested, the counselor will mark it “W” (Work on this) and kindly offer some personal assistance to the student to help him to progress. In this way students will be encouraged to make each talk, not merely the fulfillment of an assignment, but a marker in their progress as speakers.
10 Keep in mind that this speech training is progressive. Do not expect to become an accomplished speaker overnight. It is a gradual process, but one that can be speeded up with diligent effort. If you will ponder over the suggestions given in this program of speech training and become absorbed in the preparation of your assignments, your advancement will soon become manifest to all observers.—1 Tim. 4:15.
11-16. What guidelines does the counselor endeavor to follow so as to be upbuilding in his counsel?
11 Counselor. The school overseer should make a careful study of each week’s study material so that he will be able to determine if the material assigned is well covered and to be in position to correct any inaccuracies. He should never get to the point, however, that he cannot enjoy the talks because of being overly critical of the way the material is delivered. He too should gain benefit from the fine truths expressed.
12 In counseling he usually opens with a word of commendation for the effort on the part of the student. Then he proceeds to comment on the points from the counsel slip on which the speaker is working. If a point needs continued attention, emphasis should be placed, not so much on the weakness of the speaker, but on how improvement might be made. Thus the counsel will upbuild the speaker and others in the audience.
13 It is not enough merely to tell a speaker that he did well or that he needs to work again on a particular speech quality. It will be helpful to everyone present if the counselor will explain why it was good or why it needed improvement and how to improve. In addition, it will be beneficial for him to highlight reasons why the speech quality under discussion is so necessary in the field ministry or in the congregation meetings. This will stimulate appreciation for the point on the part of the entire congregation and will encourage the student to continue giving it attention.
14 It is not the counselor’s duty to give a review of the student’s talk. He should be brief and to the point with his counsel, carefully limiting it to two minutes for each student talk. In this way the counsel and suggestions will not be obscured by too many words. Also, it is appropriate to refer the student to the pages in this book where he can find additional information on the matter that was discussed.
15 Minor errors in pronunciation or grammar are not the big things to be watched. Rather the counselor should be concerned about the general effect of the speaker’s presentation. Is the material worth while and informative? Is it well organized and easy to follow? Is the delivery sincere, earnest, convincing? Do his facial expression and his gestures show that he believes what he is saying and that he is more concerned about getting the fine truths across to his hearers than he is about the impression he is making? If these vital matters are well cared for, a few mispronunciations and grammatical errors will hardly be noticed by the audience.
16 Counsel given in the ministry school should always be given in a kindly, helpful manner. There should be a keen desire to aid the student. Consider the personality of the one to be counseled. Is he sensitive? Does he have a limited education? Are there reasons for making allowances for his weaknesses? Counsel should make the one counseled feel helped, not criticized. Be sure he understands the counsel and its reasonableness.
17-19. To make the greatest improvement with each talk, what should a student do before preparing each talk and after delivering it?
17 Benefiting from counsel. When assigned a talk in the Theocratic Ministry School keep in mind that the reason for your giving the talk is not only to cover instructive material for the congregation, but also to improve your speaking ability. To succeed in this aspect, it is important to spend some time analyzing the speech qualities on which you have been asked to work. Read over carefully the Study in this book that deals with the point being worked on, so as to know how it should affect your preparation and how to demonstrate the speech quality in your delivery. To aid you, principal aspects of each speech quality are set in bold type in this book. These are the main factors to consider.
18 After you deliver your talk, listen carefully to the oral counsel offered. Accept it appreciatively. Then work on the points that need attention. If you want to hasten your progress, do not wait until you have another talk. Study over the material in this book that discusses the points on which you need to work. Endeavor to apply the suggestions in your daily conversation. And by the time you give your next student talk you may well have mastered them.
19 Every student should aim for improvement with each succeeding talk he gives on the school program. True, this will mean continuous effort, but it will surely bring Jehovah’s blessing. For those who would gain the greatest benefit from the training of the Theocratic Ministry School, there is a particular significance in the words of Proverbs 19:20: “Listen to counsel and accept discipline, in order that you may become wise in your future.”
[Chart on page 104, 105]
SPEECH COUNSEL
Speaker ․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․
(Full Name)
Marks: W - Work on this
I - Improved
G - Good
Date Talk No.
Informative material (21)*
Clear, understandable (21)
Introduction roused interest (22)
Introduction appropriate to theme (22)
Introduction of proper length (22)
Volume (23)
Pausing (23)
Audience encouraged to use Bible (24)
Scriptures properly introduced (24)
Scriptures read with emphasis (25)
Scripture application made clear (25)
Repetition for emphasis (26)
Gestures (26)
Subject theme emphasized (27)
Main points made to stand out (27)
Audience contact, use of notes (28)
Use of outline (28)
Remarks: ․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․
․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․
․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․
* Each number in parentheses refers to the Study in Theocratic Ministry School Guidebook that discusses the designated speech quality.
S-48 6/71 Printed in U.S.A.
Date Talk No.
Fluency (29)
Conversational quality (29)
Pronunciation (29)
Coherence through connectives (30)
Logical, coherent development (30)
Convincing argument (31)
Audience helped to reason (31)
Sense stress (32)
Modulation (32)
Enthusiasm (33)
Warmth, feeling (33)
Illustrations fit material (34)
Illustrations fit audience (34)
Material adapted for field ministry (35)
Conclusion appropriate, effective (36)
Conclusion of proper length (36)
Timing (36)
Confidence and poise (37)
Personal appearance (37)
NOTE: For each talk the counselor will check the student on the next points in order on the Speech Counsel form, covering whatever is grouped together in a single Study in Theocratic Ministry School Guidebook. Whenever there are adjustments made in that procedure the counselor will note that in advance under “Remarks.” The blank spaces on the form may be used for counseling students on points not listed, such as accuracy of statement, articulation, bearing, choice of words, grammar, mannerisms, relevancy, teaching techniques and voice quality when the need arises.
[Chart on page 106, 107]
SUMMARY OF SPEECH QUALITIES
Informative material (21)
Specific material
Informative to your audience
Material of practical value
Accuracy of statement
Additional clarifying material
Clear, understandable (21)
Simply stated
Unfamiliar terms explained
Not too much material
Introduction roused interest (22)
Introduction appropriate to theme (22)
Introduction of proper length (22)
Volume (23)
Loud enough to be comfortably heard
Volume to fit circumstances
Volume appropriate to material
Pausing (23)
Pause for punctuation
Pause for change of thought
Pause for emphasis
Pause when circumstances require it
Audience encouraged to use Bible (24)
By suggestion
By allowing time to find the text
Scriptures properly introduced (24)
Anticipation for scriptures aroused
Attention focused on reason for using text
Scriptures read with emphasis (25)
Right words stressed
Effective method of emphasis used
Texts householder reads
Scripture application made clear (25)
Words to be applied isolated
Point of introduction driven home
Repetition for emphasis (26)
Repetition of main points
Repetition of points not understood
Gestures (26)
Descriptive gestures
Emphatic gestures
Subject theme emphasized (27)
Appropriate theme
Theme words or idea repeated
Main points made to stand out (27)
Not too many main points
Main ideas developed separately
Sub-points focus on main ideas
Audience contact, use of notes (28)
Visual contact with the audience
Audience contact by direct address
Use of outline (28)
Fluency (29)
Conversational quality (29)
Conversational expressions used
Conversational style of delivery
Pronunciation (29)
Coherence through connectives (30)
Use of transitional expressions
Coherence adequate for your audience
Logical, coherent development (30)
Material in reasonable order
Only relevant material used
No key ideas omitted
Convincing argument (31)
Foundation laid
Sound proof given
Effective summary
Audience helped to reason (31)
Common ground maintained
Adequate development of points
Application made for audience
Sense stress (32)
Thought-conveying words in sentences stressed
Principal ideas in talk stressed
Modulation (32)
Variety in power
Variety in pace
Variety in pitch
Modulation to fit thought or emotion
Enthusiasm (33)
Enthusiasm shown by animated delivery
Enthusiasm appropriate to material
Warmth, feeling (33)
Warmth evident in facial expression
Warmth and feeling evident in tone of voice
Warmth and feeling appropriate to material
Illustrations fit material (34)
Simple
Application made clear
Important points emphasized
Illustrations fit audience (34)
Drawn from familiar situations
In good taste
Material adapted for field ministry (35)
Expressions made understandable for the public
Appropriate points selected
Practical value of material highlighted
Conclusion appropriate, effective (36)
Conclusion in direct relation to theme of talk
Conclusion shows hearers what to do
Conclusion of proper length (36)
Timing (36)
Confidence and poise (37)
Poise manifest in physical bearing
Poise shown by controlled voice
Personal appearance (37)
Proper attire and grooming
Proper posture
Neat equipment
No inappropriate facial expression |
A Sea of Superlatives—But Dead! | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102008009 | A Sea of Superlatives—But Dead!
BY AWAKE! WRITER IN ISRAEL
IT IS the saltiest, the lowest, the deadest and, for some, the most healthful body of water on earth. Over the centuries it has been called the Stinking Sea, the Devil’s Sea, and the Lake of Asphalt. The Bible calls it the Salt Sea and the sea of the Arabah. (Genesis 14:3; Joshua 3:16) A tradition confirmed by many scholars maintains that the ruins of Sodom and Gomorrah are deep under its waters. So it is also known as the Sea of Sodom or the Sea of Lot, who was a Bible character involved in the ancient drama of those cities.—2 Peter 2:6, 7.
Some of those names do not exactly conjure up the idea of a pleasant place to visit. Yet, each year thousands of people are drawn to this unusual body of water, today commonly known as the Dead Sea or Salt Sea. Why is it so salty? Is it really dead, and are its waters healthful at the same time?
The Lowest and Saltiest Sea
The Dead Sea is situated on the northern part of the Great Rift Valley fault line, which extends southward into East Africa. The Jordan River snakes its way down from the north until it reaches the lowest surface point on earth—approximately 1,370 feet [418 m] below sea level. There the inland sea is flanked by the rift walls—the Judean hills to the west and the mountains of Moab in Jordan to the east.
But what makes the Dead Sea so salty? Salts—mainly magnesium, sodium, and calcium chlorides—are washed into the Dead Sea in water flowing from the Jordan River and other smaller rivers, streams, and springs. It is estimated that the Jordan River alone deposits an incredible 850,000 tons of salt each year. Because the sea is at such a low point, the water cannot drain out; the only way for it to escape is by evaporation. On a hot summer day, an enormous seven million tons of water evaporates, which explains why the volume of the lake does not increase. Although the water disappears, the salts and the minerals are left behind. This results in the saltiest sea on earth, with a salinity of about 30 percent, several times saltier than the oceans.
From antiquity, people have been intrigued by the unique characteristics of the Dead Sea. Greek philosopher Aristotle heard that the Sea was “so bitter and salt[y] that no fish [lived] in it.” The unusually high concentration of salt results in a density that creates increased natural buoyancy, making it easy for even nonswimmers to stay afloat. The Jewish historian Flavius Josephus tells of how Roman General Vespasian put this phenomenon to the test by throwing his prisoners of war into the sea.
At this point you may be wondering how this body of water can be dead and yet healthful.
The Most Healthful Sea?
Medieval travelers brought home tales of a sterile sea with no birds, no fish, and no vegetation. It was even thought that the smelly vapors from the lake were deadly. This, of course, propagated the idea of a stinking sea that was dead. It is true that because of its high salinity, only simple organisms, such as some resilient forms of bacteria, can survive in its waters and any unfortunate fish that are swept into the sea with incoming water quickly expire.
The sea is unable to support life, but the same cannot be said of the surrounding region. Though much of the area is barren, there are pockets of land that stand out as lush oases with waterfalls and tropical plants. The region is also recognized as a flourishing wildlife habitat. There are 24 species of mammals living near the sea, including the sand cat, the Arabian wolf, and the oft-sighted ibex. Freshwater sources provide habitat for the many amphibians, reptiles, and fish. Since the Dead Sea is located on a major migration route, over 90 bird species have been identified here, such as the black stork and the white stork. The griffon vulture and the Egyptian vulture can also be spotted here.
But how is the Dead Sea the most healthful body of water? In ancient times people were said to drink the water, believing that it had curative properties—something that is obviously not recommended today! More reasonably, the salt water is said to have a cleansing effect on the body. The therapeutic benefits of the whole region are also highly extolled. The low altitude creates a naturally oxygen-enriched atmosphere. The high concentration of bromide in the air is said to have a relaxing effect, and the mineral-rich black mud and hot sulfur springs along the shores are both used to treat a number of skin ailments and arthritic disorders. Furthermore, balsam, a tree that used to grow in the area, has always been valued and used for cosmetic and medicinal purposes.
Asphalt From the Sea
One of the strangest phenomena of the Dead Sea is its discharge of bitumen (asphalt), which has occasionally been seen floating to the surface in lumps.a In 1905 the periodical The Biblical World reported that a piece of bitumen weighing about 6,000 pounds [2,700 kg] had floated ashore in 1834. Bitumen has been described as “the first petroleum product ever used by the human race.” (Saudi Aramco World, November/December 1984) Some people used to think that earthquakes caused chunks to break away from the bed of the Dead Sea and then float to the surface. It is more likely that the asphalt filters up through diapirs or cracks and reaches the sea bottom together with salt rock structures. Then, when the salt rocks melt, blocks of asphalt surface.
Over the centuries bitumen has been used in various ways—as waterproofing for boats, in construction, and even as an insect repellent. It is thought that about the middle of the fourth century B.C.E., Egyptians started to make abundant use of bitumen for mummification, although this belief is challenged by some experts. At that time the Nabataeans, an ancient nomadic people who settled in the area of the Dead Sea, monopolized the trade in the region. They brought the bitumen ashore, cut it up, and then took it to Egypt.
The Dead Sea is truly a sea of superlatives. It is no exaggeration to describe this sea as the saltiest, the lowest, the deadest, and perhaps the most healthful sea. Certainly it is one of the most interesting seas on our planet!
[Footnote]
a Petroleum-derived bitumen is also called asphalt. However, in many places asphalt refers to bitumen mixed with mineral aggregates such as sand or gravel, often used in the paving of roads. For the purpose of this article, we have used bitumen and asphalt interchangeably to indicate the crude product.
[Box/Picture on page 27]
PRESERVED IN BRINE
Historians report that the Dead Sea was once a bustling trade route—a claim that has been backed up by the recent discovery of two wooden anchors.
These anchors were found on the receding shores of the Dead Sea, close to where the ancient harbor of En-gedi was once located. One anchor is thought to be about 2,500 years old, making it the oldest anchor ever discovered in the Dead Sea area. The second one is thought to be about 2,000 years old and is believed to have been crafted with the best Roman technology of the time.
Wooden anchors usually decompose in normal seawater, and the metal ones last. Yet, the lack of oxygen in the Dead Sea and its salinity have preserved the wood and attached ropes, which are in remarkably good condition.
[Picture]
Wooden anchor dated to between the 7th and the 5th centuries B.C.E.
[Credit Line]
Photograph © Israel Museum, Courtesy of Israel Antiquities Authority
[Picture on page 26]
Hot-spring waterfalls
[Picture on page 26]
Male ibex
[Picture on page 26]
Reading the newspaper while floating |
FIND RELIEF FROM STRESS
A Stress-Free Life Is Possible | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102020008 | FIND RELIEF FROM STRESS
A Stress-Free Life Is Possible
The wisdom in the Bible can help us to avoid much needless stress. We ourselves cannot eliminate all that stresses us. But our Creator can. He has even appointed someone to come to our aid. That one is Jesus Christ. On a global scale, he will soon do even more wonderful things than he did when he was a man on earth. For example:
JESUS WILL HEAL THE SICK, AS HE DEMONSTRATED.
“They brought him all those who were suffering with various diseases . . . , and he cured them.”—MATTHEW 4:24.
JESUS WILL PROVIDE HOUSING AND FOOD FOR ALL.
“They [Christ’s subjects] will build houses and live in them, and they will plant vineyards and eat their fruitage. They will not build for someone else to inhabit, nor will they plant for others to eat.”—ISAIAH 65:21, 22.
JESUS’ RULE WILL RESULT IN GLOBAL PEACE AND SECURITY.
“In his days the righteous will flourish, and peace will abound until the moon is no more. He will have subjects from sea to sea and from the River to the ends of the earth. . . . His enemies will lick the dust.”—PSALM 72:7-9.
JESUS WILL ELIMINATE INJUSTICE.
“He will have pity on the lowly and the poor, and the lives of the poor he will save. From oppression and from violence he will rescue them.”—PSALM 72:13, 14.
JESUS WILL EVEN ELIMINATE SUFFERING AND DEATH.
“Death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore.”—REVELATION 21:4.
“PERILOUS TIMES OF GREAT STRESS”
“The world is more stressed, worried, sad and in pain today than we’ve ever seen it.”—Mohamed S. Younis, Gallup managing editor.
Why is stress so common? The Bible gives a most reasonable answer. At 2 Timothy 3:1, it states: “In the last days will come . . . perilous times of great stress and trouble.” (The Amplified Bible) The reason, the Bible goes on to say, relates to the bad personality traits of people. These traits include greed, arrogance, religious hypocrisy, a violent disposition, a lack of family affection, and a lack of self-control. (2 Timothy 3:2-5) The last days will end when Jesus Christ takes full control of the earth as King of God’s Kingdom, a heavenly government.—Daniel 2:44. |
Scriptures for Christian Living (scl)
2023 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/scl | Associations
What are the most important friendships that humans can form?
Ps 25:14; Joh 15:13-15; Jas 2:23
See also Pr 3:32
Relevant Bible account(s):
Ge 5:22-24—Enoch develops a close friendship with God
Ge 6:9—Noah, like his great-grandfather Enoch, walks with God
Why do we need good friends?
Pr 13:20; 17:17; 18:24; 27:17
See also Pr 18:1
Relevant Bible account(s):
Ru 1:16, 17—Ruth proves to be a loyal friend to Naomi
1Sa 18:1; 19:2, 4—Jonathan and David forge a strong friendship
2Ki 2:2, 4, 6—Elisha shows steadfast love for his mentor, the prophet Elijah
Why do we need to associate regularly with fellow worshippers of Jehovah?
Ro 1:11, 12; Heb 10:24, 25
See also Ps 119:63; 133:1; Pr 27:9; Ac 1:13, 14; 1Th 5:11
How can we make good friends?
Lu 6:31; 2Co 6:12, 13; Php 2:3, 4
See also Ro 12:10; Eph 4:31, 32
What are some dangers of close association with those who do not share our spiritual values?
Pr 13:20; 1Co 15:33; Eph 5:6-9
See also 1Pe 4:3-5; 1Jo 2:15-17
See also “Friendship With the World”
Relevant Bible account(s):
Ge 34:1, 2—Dinah chooses bad associates, leading to tragic consequences
2Ch 18:1-3; 19:1, 2—Jehovah rebukes good King Jehoshaphat for choosing to ally himself with wicked King Ahab
Should we avoid all contact with those who do not worship Jehovah God?
Mt 28:19, 20; Joh 17:15, 16; 1Co 5:9, 10
Why is it wrong to marry someone who is not a dedicated, baptized servant of Jehovah?
See “Marriage”
Why should we avoid association with those who are disfellowshipped from the Christian congregation?
Ro 16:17; 1Co 5:11; 2Jo 10, 11 |
Happiness (hp)
1980 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/hp | Chapter 11
Sickness and Death—Why?
NO MATTER what people may do to care for their health, they grow older, get sick and finally die. No one can avoid it. Even men devoted to God could not. (1 Kings 1:1; 2:1, 10; 1 Timothy 5:23) Why is it that way?
2 Our body cells seem to have the potential for replacing worn-out ones far longer than they now do, and our brain has more capacity than we could use in many life-spans. Why—if we are not meant to use these capacities? Actually, scientists cannot explain why we grow old, get sick and die. But the Bible does.
THE CAUSE OF SICKNESS AND DEATH
3 The apostle Paul points us in the right direction, saying: “In Adam all are dying.” (1 Corinthians 15:21, 22) Paul here refers to the Bible account of Adam and Eve, which account Jesus Christ confirmed as accurate. (Mark 10:6-8) The Creator had put the first couple in a garden home, with the happy prospect of endless life in harmony with his will. They had ample healthful food from the various trees and other vegetation. Furthermore, Adam and Eve were perfect humans. Their minds and bodies were without defect, and there was no reason for these to deteriorate, as happens with humans now.—Deuteronomy 32:4; Genesis 1:31.
4 Only one restriction was placed on that first human pair. God said: “As for the tree of the knowledge of good and bad you must not eat from it, for in the day you eat from it you will positively die.” (Genesis 2:17) By complying with this limitation, they would show recognition of God’s authority to determine what is good and what is bad for humans. In time, they set their own standards of good and bad. (Genesis 3:6, 7) By disobeying God’s plainly stated command, they committed what the Bible calls “sin.” In both Hebrew and Greek, “to sin” means “to miss [the mark].” Adam and Eve missed the mark or fell short of perfect obedience. They no longer reflected Jehovah’s perfection, and they brought upon themselves God’s just sentence.—Luke 16:10.
5 Adam and Eve’s sin affected both them and us. Why us? Well, God did not execute them immediately. Showing consideration for all that was involved, Jehovah let the first pair bring forth children. But Adam and Eve were no longer perfect; when they sinned they began to deteriorate physically and mentally. So they could not produce perfect children. (Job 14:4) The situation could be likened to that of a couple today who have a genetic defect that they pass on to their children. We inherited the defect of sin, for we all stem from an imperfect first pair. Paul explains: “Through one man [Adam] sin entered into the world and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men because they had all sinned.”—Romans 5:12; Psalm 51:5.
6 Was the situation hopeless? Both history and the Bible confirm that left up to humans it would have been. We are unable to cleanse ourselves of the stain of sin or to release ourselves from God’s condemnation. If there was to be a release, God would provide it. His law was broken, so he would be the One to determine how perfect justice could be met and a release provided. Jehovah God showed his undeserved kindness by making provision for relief to Adam and Eve’s offspring, including us. The Bible explains what the provision is and how we may benefit.
7 These passages offer the basis for understanding the matter:
“God loved the world [of mankind] so much that he gave his only-begotten Son, in order that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.”—John 3:16.
“The Son of man [Jesus] came, not to be ministered to, but to minister and to give his soul a ransom in exchange for many.”—Mark 10:45.
“All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and it is as a free gift that they are being declared righteous by his undeserved kindness through the release by the ransom paid by Christ Jesus. God set him forth as an offering [that covers] through faith in his blood.”—Romans 3:23-25.
WHAT IS “THE RANSOM”?
8 Two of those texts mention a “ransom.” That, basically, is a price paid to set a captive free. (Isaiah 43:3) We often hear the word used with reference to money for releasing a kidnap victim. In our case, the captive is mankind. Adam sold us into bondage to sin, with resulting sickness and death. (Romans 7:14) What valuable thing could redeem mankind and open up for us the prospect of life free from the effects of sin?
9 Recall that the Bible says that Jesus ‘gave his life as a ransom.’ (Mark 10:45) We can see from this that a human life was needed. By sinning, Adam had forfeited perfect human life. To open the way for mankind to regain life in perfection another perfect human life was needed to balance or buy back what Adam had lost. This emphasizes why no imperfect descendant of Adam could provide the ransom. As Psalm 49:7, 8 says: “Man could never redeem himself or pay his ransom to God: it costs so much to redeem his life, it is beyond him.”—Jerusalem Bible.
10 To provide the ransom price, God sent his perfect spirit Son from heaven to be born as a human. An angel explained to the chaste virgin Mary how God would make sure that Jesus would be perfect at birth: “Power of the Most High will overshadow you. For that reason also what is born will be called holy, God’s Son.” (Luke 1:35; Galatians 4:4) Jesus, not having an imperfect human father, was free of inherited sin.—1 Peter 2:22; Hebrews 7:26.
11 After living as a human in full accord with God’s will, Christ gave up his perfect human life. It was a life such as Adam had when created, so Jesus became a “corresponding ransom for all.” (1 Timothy 2:5, 6; 1 Corinthians 15:45) Yes, it was “for all” in that he paid the price to purchase the entire human family. Accordingly, the Bible says that we have been “bought with a price.” (1 Corinthians 6:20) God, through Jesus’ death, thus laid the basis for counteracting what Adam did in bringing sin, sickness and death on mankind. This truth can have real meaning in making our lives happy.
HOW CAN OUR SINS BE FORGIVEN?
12 It is fine to know from the Bible that Jesus paid the ransom price. But there still is something that can be a barrier to our having God’s approval and blessing. That is the fact that we personally are sinners. We ‘miss the mark’ many times. Paul wrote: “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) What can be done about that? How can we become acceptable to our righteous God, Jehovah?
13 Certainly we would not expect God to look with approval on us if we continued in a course that we knew to be contrary to his will. We must repent sincerely of our wrong desires, speech and conduct, and then endeavor to conform to his standards set out in the Bible. (Acts 17:30) Still our sins—past and present—need to be covered over. Jesus’ ransom sacrifice serves us here. Paul gives an indication of this, writing that God ‘set forth Jesus as an offering that covers through faith in his blood.’—Romans 3:24, 25.
14 The apostle was here referring to something that God arranged long before and that was to picture or to point forward to Christ. In ancient Israel animal sacrifices for sins were regularly offered on behalf of the people. And individuals themselves could make guilt offerings for special cases of wrongdoing. (Leviticus 16:1-34; 5:1-6, 17-19) God accepted these blood sacrifices as atoning for or canceling out human sins. But this did not bring lasting relief, for the Bible says that “it is not possible for the blood of bulls and of goats to take sins away.” (Hebrews 10:3, 4) However, these features of worship involving priests, temples, altars and offerings were “an illustration” or “a shadow of the good things to come” involving Jesus’ sacrifice.—Hebrews 9:6-9, 11, 12; 10:1.
15 The Bible shows how important this is to our obtaining forgiveness, saying: “By means of him we have the release by ransom through the blood of that one [Jesus], yes, the forgiveness of our trespasses.” (Ephesians 1:7; 1 Peter 2:24) So, in addition to his death’s providing the ransom, it can cover our sins; we can have our sins forgiven. But something is required of us. Since we have been purchased, yes, “bought with a price” by Christ’s ransom, we must be willing to accept Jesus as our Lord or Owner and obey him. (1 Corinthians 6:11, 20; Hebrews 5:9) Consequently, we need to repent of our sins and to couple this with faith in the sacrifice of Jesus our Lord.
16 If we do so, we do not have to wait for forgiveness until God relieves mankind of all the effects of sin, putting an end to sickness and death. The Scriptures speak of this forgiveness as something that we can enjoy right now, resulting in a clean conscience before God.—1 John 2:12.
17 Jesus’ sacrifice should, therefore, have very personal meaning for us each day. By means of it God can forgive the wrongs we commit. The apostle John explains: “I am writing you these things that you may not commit a sin. And yet, if anyone does commit a sin, we have a helper with the Father, Jesus Christ, a righteous one.” (1 John 2:1; Luke 11:2-4) This is a primary Bible teaching and is vital to our lasting happiness.—1 Corinthians 15:3.
WHAT WILL YOU DO?
18 How do you react to what the Bible says about the cause of sickness and death, the ransom and the provision for forgiveness through Jesus Christ? A person might take in these details mentally without its touching his heart and life. But more is required of us.
19 Do we appreciate God’s love in providing the ransom? The apostle John wrote: “God loved the world so much that he gave his only-begotten Son.” (John 3:16) Remember that the humans involved were sinners, alienated from God. (Romans 5:10; Colossians 1:21) Would you give up your dearest one in behalf of persons most of whom showed little or no interest in you? Yet Jehovah had his pure and faithful Son, his beloved Firstborn, come to earth to face contempt, shame and death in order to provide relief for humankind. That moved Paul to write: “God recommends his own love to us in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”—Romans 5:8.
20 The Son showed his love, too. When the time came, he willingly lowered himself to become a man. He slaved for imperfect humans, teaching and healing them. And, though innocent, he accepted ridicule, torture and a shameful death at the hands of enemies of the truth. As an aid to appreciating this, take the time to read the account of Jesus’ betrayal, trial, abuse and execution, as recorded in Luke 22:47 through 23:47.
21 How will you respond to all of this? Certainly a person should not let his acceptance of the loving provision of the ransom become an excuse for wrong conduct. That would be missing its purpose, and it could even result in sin that is beyond forgiveness. (Hebrews 10:26, 29; Numbers 15:30) Instead, we ought to endeavor to live in a way that will bring honor to our Creator. And faith in the grand provision made through his Son should move us to talk to others about it, helping them to appreciate how they too can benefit.—Acts 4:12; Romans 10:9, 10; James 2:26; 2 Corinthians 5:14, 15.
22 When Jesus Christ was on earth he said that he could extend God’s forgiveness of sins. Some enemies criticized him for that. So Jesus proved it by healing a paralyzed man. (Luke 5:17-26) Hence, just as sin produced physical effects on mankind, the forgiveness of sins can result in benefits. It is important to know that. What Jesus did on earth shows that God can bring an end to sickness and dying. That is in accord with what Jesus Christ himself said, namely, that Jehovah God gave his Son so that persons with faith might have “everlasting life.” (John 3:16) But how? When? And what about our loved ones who have already died?
[Study Questions]
Why are sickness and death a puzzle? (1, 2)
How did sickness and death come to affect us? (3-5)
Why is the solution to sickness and death up to God? (6, 7)
How has a ransom been provided? (8-11)
What basis is there for our sins to be forgiven? (12-17)
How do you respond to what God and Jesus have done? (1 John 4:9-11) (18-21)
Forgiveness of our sins can involve what prospect? (22)
[Box on page 103]
Science writer Isaac Asimov explained that the RNA molecules in the human brain provide “a filing system perfectly capable of handling any load of learning and memory which the human being is likely to put upon it—and a billion times more than that quantity, too.”—The New York “Times Magazine.”
[Picture on page 108]
The sacrifices in Israel pointed forward to Jesus’ ransom sacrifice |
Holy Spirit (hs)
1976 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/hs | Chapter 2
Holy Spirit Active in the Invisible Heavenly Realm
1. Why is it important for us to know how holy spirit has functioned in the invisible heavenly realm?
MAN MAY feel more interested in how God’s holy spirit functions in the visible, material realm or universe as man knows it. However, what has taken place in the invisible, heavenly realm has greatly affected human affairs. How holy spirit is to be set in motion in the near future, within our own generation, is instructioned with what takes place in the invisible realm and is highly important to man. We should therefore want to understand how holy spirit works in such a connection so important to us now.
2. In what way does Psalm 104:29, 30 show how dependent mankind is upon the invisible heavenly realm?
2 Modern-minded man may not like to acknowledge it, but mankind is dependent upon the invisible heavenly realm. If God the Creator were to turn away his face from us on earth, become “dead” to us, as it were, what would become of us? The Bible psalmist had it right when he said to God: “If you conceal your face, they get disturbed. If you take away their spirit, they expire, and back to their dust they go. If you send forth your spirit, they are created; and you make the face of the ground new.” (Psalm 104:29, 30) Consequently the principal study for man is not man himself, but, rather, the Creator, God. As far as God is pleased to reveal to us something about the invisible heavenly realm, this fundamentally deserves study by us.
3. Why would it be shortsighted and unreasonable for us to imagine that God dwells alone and without agreeable environment in heaven?
3 Let us always keep in mind that “God is a Spirit,” or, “God is spirit.” (John 4:24, and marginal reading) Correspondingly, he dwells in a spirit realm. All alone, and without an agreeable environment? No! It would be shortsighted and unreasonable for us to imagine that God can create only material things visible to us and has not also created things in the invisible heavenly realm. Such things of a higher realm would be of a composition higher than that of the material creation of which we humans are a part.
4. Why is the invisible heavenly realm not dependent upon our sun for light?
4 When we think of all the wondrous, beautiful things that God has put here in the material realm, it fills us with awe when we try to think of all the wonderful, glorious things that he has created in the spiritual realm. There is no dependence upon the sun of our solar system for light up there. No night there! The Creator of the light-giving suns is himself a heavenly Sun, a source of light. Literally and figuratively, morally, it is true: “God is light and there is no darkness at all in union with him.” (1 John 1:5) Long before the saying of the Bible writer John, the psalmist described the Creator as being as welcome as the sunlight of day, when he wrote: “Jehovah God is a sun and a shield; favor and glory are what he gives. Jehovah himself will not hold back anything good from those walking in faultlessness.”—Psalm 84:11.
5. What kind of persons does God have in the invisible heavenly realm with him, and how do they differ from men?
5 It is not just reasonable to believe so, but the Holy Bible itself testifies that God has with him in the invisible spirit realm intelligent persons of a spirit composition. With these he can have direct contact. They can see him even as he sees them. Being of higher, superhuman composition, as to their makeup, they are not dissolved, disintegrated, annihilated at the mere sight of him. They can be in direct touch with him, serving in his personal presence. (Luke 1:19) Not to angels, but to men, God said: “You are not able to see my face, because no man may see me and yet live.” (Exodus 33:20) So God said even to his prophet Moses.
6. According to Revelation 4:11, how did those spirit companions of God get there?
6 How did those spirit companions of God get there? Well, how did the first human couple get here? We shall take the answer as given by those whom the Bible writer John saw in a vision, worshiping God in heaven. We quote these words of theirs: “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory, honor, and power, for you created all things; by your will they existed and were created.”—Revelation 4:11, An American Translation.
7, 8. On resurrection day, what did Jesus say that a spirit does not have, and what did he do about the body in which he appeared?
7 God made the first human couple flesh and blood. Prior to this, God had made his heavenly companions spirit, of a composition superior to that of man. On this point, Jesus Christ made a clarifying statement on the day of his resurrection from the dead. He appeared to his disciples in a locked room in Jerusalem. To do this, he appeared in a materialized body like that in which he had died, but they thought they were seeing a spirit. Well, what did he say to them? This: “A spirit does not have flesh and bones just as you behold that I have.”—Luke 24:36-39.
8 After conversing with those amazed disciples, the resurrected Jesus vanished. He dematerialized or dissolved that clothed human body. He did not take that body and its clothing into the spirit realm with him. Had it been possible to do so, it would mean that a spirit person in heaven does have flesh and bones, at least in the case of the glorified Jesus Christ.—1 Corinthians 15:50.
9. Directly of what composition did God create his heavenly companions?
9 In view of all those facts, the Lord God made his heavenly associates directly spirit. He did not transfer human creatures of flesh, blood and bones from our earth to keep him company in the invisible heavenly realm. To describe what kind of persons God created directly in heaven, the Christian apostle Paul writes: “He makes his angels spirits, and his public servants a flame of fire.” (Hebrews 1:7) Here the apostle Paul was quoting the psalmist David when he speaks of Jehovah God as “making his angels spirits, his ministers a devouring fire.” (Psalm 104:4) Accordingly, the testimony of God’s own written Word is that he has power to create spirit creatures as well as human creatures.
10. How does Genesis 1:26 indicate that the creation of spirit persons preceded that of human creatures?
10 The creating of spirit creatures predates the creating of human creatures. God’s own words as disclosed to us in the first chapter of the Bible indicate this. There we read: “God went on to say: ‘Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness, and let them have in subjection the fish of the sea and the flying creatures of the heavens and the domestic animals and all the earth and every moving animal that is moving upon the earth.’” (Genesis 1:26) Now, when God said, “Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness,” he was not talking to himself as if he were a two-in-one god or a three-in-one god. He was talking to at least one other heavenly person separate and distinct from himself and was inviting that spirit person to join him in the producing of an earthly, human creature.
11. How does Job 38:1-7 indicate that there were more than one other person with God at the time of man’s creation?
11 However, at the time of the creation of man and woman, there were more than one spirit person in association with God. There were spirit persons whom God had created even before the creation of the earth. This fact was called to the attention of faithful Job of the land of Uz, when God said to him: “Where did you happen to be when I founded the earth? Tell me, if you do know understanding. Who set its measurements, in case you know . . . or who laid its cornerstone, when the morning stars joyfully cried out together, and all the sons of God began shouting in applause?” (Job 38:1-7) That occurred many thousands of years before the final part of God’s sixth creative day, at which time God created man and woman. (Genesis 1:27-31) Consequently those joyful “sons of God” were not creatures that had first been on the earth as humans and thereafter transferred to God’s presence in heaven. They were God’s spirit creatures from the start of their existence. God never populated the heavens from the earth’s inhabitants.
12. How do men and angels compare as to level of existence and of powers?
12 Those godlike “sons of God” are superior to man. Hence the psalmist David, after recognizing the highness of God above the heavens, went on to say: “What is mortal man that you keep him in mind, and the son of earthling man that you take care of him? You also proceeded to make him a little less than godlike ones.” (Psalm 8:4, 5) Who are those “godlike ones”? They are angels, for the Bible writer, when making an application of Psalm 8:5, says, in Hebrews 2:6-9: “You made him a little lower than angels.” So, as regards level of existence and of powers, man is unchangeably lower than those “sons of God,” those heavenly angels.
ASSEMBLIES OF SPIRIT PERSONS IN HEAVEN
13. Where do we have the first record of heavenly assemblies, and at these who presided?
13 Assemblies of those “sons of God” take place from time to time and the Most High God presides over them. He has revealed that fact to us in his written Word. The earliest reports that we find of such heavenly assemblies are recorded in the first two chapters of Job. “Now,” in the earlier part of Job’s life, “it came to be the day when the sons of the true God entered to take their station before Jehovah, and even Satan proceeded to enter right among them. Then Jehovah said to Satan: ‘Where do you come from?’ At that Satan answered Jehovah and said: ‘From roving about in the earth and from walking about in it.’” Some verses later, in the next chapter, a second assembly of Jehovah with his heavenly sons is reported on, and again that spirit person called Satan takes advantage of the opportunity.(Job 1:6, 7; 2:1, 2) Those assemblies, invisible to our sight, are purposeful, and Almighty God maintains order at them. All present have to answer to him as to their whereabouts and their doings. Even the individual called Satan has to be respectful, even though he is what his name brands him to be, the outstanding resister of Jehovah God.
14. What heavenly assembly is referred to in Hebrews 12:22, 23?
14 As regards such assemblies of spirit “sons of God” in heaven, we read further, in Hebrews 12:22, 23: “You,” Hebrew Christians, “have approached a Mount Zion and a city of the living God, heavenly Jerusalem, and myriads of angels, in general assembly.” All those myriads of angels, who remain faithful to their heavenly Father and refuse to imitate Satan, make up one big heavenly family of God.
15. How does Paul refer to such a heavenly family in Ephesians 3:14, 15, and what relationship do the members hold to one another?
15 The Bible writer Paul refers to this heavenly family. When writing to Christians who recognize Jehovah God as their heavenly Father, Paul says: “On account of this I bend my knees to the Father, to whom every family in heaven and on earth owes its name.” (Ephesians 3:14, 15) Every family owes its name to its father, and it should live up to the dignity and worthiness of that name. Having but one Father, those heavenly “sons of God” are all brothers.
16. What heavenly assembly did the prophet Micaiah see in vision in the latter part of the tenth century B.C.E.?
16 A heavenly assembly took place in the latter part of the tenth century before our Common Era. The Israelite prophet Micaiah had a vision of it. Describing it, Micaiah said to two allied kings, Ahab and Jehoshaphat: “Hear the word of Jehovah: I certainly see Jehovah sitting upon his throne and all the army of the heavens standing by him, to his right and to his left. And Jehovah proceeded to say, ‘Who will fool Ahab, that he may go up and fall at Ramoth-gilead?’ And this one began to say something like this, while that one was saying something like that. Finally a spirit came out and stood before Jehovah and said, ‘I myself shall fool him.’”—1 Kings 22:19-21.
17. The army then alongside God was made up of what kind of persons?
17 Let us note that the angel who proposed the successful method for fooling wicked King Ahab to his ruin in battle is called “a spirit.” This signifies that all that “army” at God’s right hand and left hand are likewise spirits, yes, intelligent spirit creatures. They are differentiated from us human creatures.
18, 19. What judicial court session in heaven did Daniel see in vision, scheduled for our twentieth century?
18 Are we humans of today aware of the fact that a judicial court session was long ago scheduled to be in heaven during our present twentieth century? A miraculous vision of this was given to the prophet Daniel while he was a captive slave in Babylon more than two thousand five hundred years ago. In his description of this he writes:
19 “After this I kept on beholding in the visions of the night, and, see there! a fourth beast, fearsome and terrible and unusually strong. . . . I kept on beholding until there were thrones placed and the Ancient of Days sat down. . . . There were a thousand thousands that kept ministering to him, and ten thousand times ten thousand that kept standing right before him. The Court took its seat, and there were books that were opened. . . . I kept on beholding in the visions of the night, and, see there! with the clouds of the heavens someone like a son of man happened to be coming; and to the Ancient of Days he gained access, and they brought him up close even before that One. And to him there were given rulership and dignity and kingdom, that the peoples, national groups and languages should all serve even him. His rulership is an indefinitely lasting rulership that will not pass away, and his kingdom one that will not be brought to ruin.”—Daniel 7:7-14.
20. Which heavenly son of God is it that is so highly honored as the one spoken of as “a son of man” in Daniel’s vision?
20 Is there any other spirit son of God in heaven who is honored so highly as this one who appears in Daniel’s vision as “a son of man”? No! Who, then, is he? The psalmist identifies him. In Psalm 89:26, 27 he says: “He himself calls out to me, ‘You are my Father, my God and the Rock of my salvation.’ Also, I myself shall place him as firstborn, The most high of the kings of the earth.” This statement of Jehovah does not refer to King David, with whom God made a covenant for an everlasting kingdom in his royal family line, nor to David’s royal successor, Solomon. Neither of these kings were the firstborn sons of their fathers. (Psalm 89:28-37; 2 Samuel 7:4-17) The later facts show that Jehovah was referring prophetically to his own “firstborn” in heaven, the Son who had been with him for time indefinite before Jehovah God created man.
21. According to Revelation 3:14, did God have a heavenly wife at the time that he brought forth his “firstborn” son?
21 Naturally someone may ask, How could God have a “firstborn,” when He had no wife in heaven at that time? In answer to that question, the one who proved to be that “firstborn” speaks for himself. In the Bible’s last book, in Revelation 3:14, he says: “These are the things that the Amen says, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation by God.” The speaker of those words was the resurrected, glorified Lord Jesus Christ, who is a “faithful and true witness” and who does not lie about the matter. He himself says he is “the beginning of the creation by God.” Hence God could have no wife before the one whom He created first.
22. What did Jesus, although a creation, speak of God as being to him?
22 Although he is a “creation” and not the child of a mother, Jesus continuously speaks of God as his own Father. (Revelation 3:21; 14:1) He also speaks of his Father as being his own God. In Revelation 3:12 he says: “The one that conquers—I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God, and . . . I will write upon him the name of my God and the name of the city of my God.” This agrees with what he said on the day of his resurrection to Mary Magdalene near the empty tomb: “Be on your way to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father and to my God and your God.’” (John 20:17) This was on Nisan 16, 33 C.E., the third day after he had cried out on the torture stake on which he had been impaled to die: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” And, finally: “Father, into your hands I entrust my spirit.”—Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34; Luke 23:46; Psalm 22:1; 31:5.
THE “ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON”
23. In being God’s “only-begotten Son,” Jesus Christ would rank where in the order of creation by God?
23 In words addressed to the Jewish ruler Nicodemus, what did Jesus Christ speak of himself as being? Listen: “God loved the world so much that he gave his only-begotten Son, in order that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) In speaking of himself as God’s “only-begotten Son” he was identifying himself as God’s “firstborn.” God’s direct, unshared creating of things out of nothing began and ended with this “firstborn,” “only-begotten Son.” In addition to Jesus’ calling himself “the beginning of the creation by God,” the apostle Paul adds a similar designation to him, saying: “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.” (Colossians 1:15) So, after God created “the firstborn of all creation,” all things that were brought into existence afterward were other creations. When creating all those other things, God took into his employ his “only-begotten Son.”
24. According to Colossians 1:15, 16 and John 1:1-3, by means of whom were all other things created by God?
24 In bearing out this thought, the apostle Paul first mentions the “firstborn of all creation” and then goes on to say: “Because by means of him all other things were created in the heavens and upon the earth, the things visible and the things invisible.” (Colossians 1:16) Now we can understand the apostle John’s words in John 1:1-3: “In the beginning the Word [Greek, Logos] was, and the Word [Logos] was with God, and the Word [Logos] was a god. This one was in the beginning with God. All things came into existence through him, and apart from him not even one thing came into existence.” In the Bible’s last book, also written by John, he tells us that the glorified Jesus Christ bears the input “The Word of God,” not God the Word: “And the name he is called is The Word [Logos] of God.”—Revelation 19:13.
25. Why and in what way did the Logos have the “preeminence”?
25 Upon the one called “the beginning of the creation by God” were conferred the dignity and rights of God’s “firstborn,” “only-begotten Son.” As “firstborn” Son, this one had the preeminence over all future “sons of God.” (Colossians 1:18) This included his being taken into association with his heavenly Father in bringing all other things into existence in heaven and on earth.
26. Why are the spirit creatures who were brought into existence by means of the Logos not called his sons?
26 When the Word or Logos was used as the means by which all these countless “sons of God” were brought into being, holy spirit from God his Father must have operated powerfully upon him and through him. It was with him and active in his behalf. The manner of operation must have been there as it was later on when he became a perfect man on earth and performed miraculous cures. Hence he said that he expelled demons by means of God’s spirit. (Luke 11:20; Matthew 12:28) Because the spirit of Jehovah God likewise operated by means of the Logos up in heaven, those “sons of God” that were brought into existence through him consider, not him, but Jehovah God as their Creator and Father. They are not called the sons of the Logos. They are termed “sons of the true God.”—Job 1:6; 2:1; 38:7.
27. At man’s creation, to whom did God say, “Let us,” and why was He the proper one to say this?
27 It is now evident, therefore, that when God said on his sixth creative day, “Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness,” he was speaking to his “firstborn,” to “his only-begotten Son.” (Genesis 1:26-31) God might also have said “Let us” to this Son when God contemplated creating the heavenly angels, including the cherubs and the seraphs. Jehovah God as the Most High and the Creator of all things was the One to determine upon what should be brought into existence. The angels were to be sons of His. As a prospective Father, he exercised his will as to when to have more heavenly spirit sons. His spirit was the only active force by means of which further things could be made to exist.
28. What “sons of God” did the expelled Adam and Eve see at the garden’s entrance, and what operated the continually turning sword there?
28 In course of time cherubic “sons of God” became visible at the entrance of the Garden of Eden. Why? Well, the first human couple, Adam and Eve, rebelled against God and were driven out of their Paradise home. So the cherubs were stationed at the garden’s entrance to prevent the two sinners from getting back in to try to counteract the death penalty. (Genesis 3:24) What Adam and Eve saw were materialized cherubs. The “sword that was turning itself continually” at the garden’s entrance was certainly kept in motion by God’s holy spirit, in order to keep out unholy humans.
29. What kind of sons of God did Isaiah see in vision, and, later, what kind did Ezekiel see?
29 In the eighth century B.C.E. the prophet Isaiah saw in vision seraphic “sons of God.” These seraphs were attending upon Jehovah God in his temple. (Isaiah 6:1-7) In the following century, the prophet Ezekiel in Babylon was given a vision in which he beheld cherubic “sons of God.”—Ezekiel 1:1-25; 9:3; 10:1-20; 11:22.
30, 31. What indicates that the cherubs are speedy in flight when God sends them on errands, and with what government are they associated?
30 Cherubs, as “living creatures,” must be very speedy in flight when God sends them on errands. So, in response to an appeal to God for help, “he came riding upon a cherub and came flying, and he came darting upon the wings of a spirit.”—Psalm 18:10.
31 Evidently in the spirit realm tremendous distances must be covered in a short space of time. Distance did not keep speedy help from coming to King Hezekiah of Jerusalem after he went to the temple in a time of national crisis. He prayed: “O Jehovah of armies, the God of Israel, sitting upon the cherubs, you alone are the true God of all the kingdoms of the earth.” (Isaiah 37:14-37) To Jehovah God the cherubs are subject, as if he sat above them; and they will be associated with his kingdom that is to bring speedy relief to all mankind in its direst need. In accord with this blessed fact are the opening words of the prophetic psalm: “Jehovah himself has become king. Let the peoples be agitated. He is sitting upon the cherubs. Let the earth quiver.” (Psalm 99:1; also Ps 80:1) Jehovah’s superior position with regard to the cherubs was portrayed in the ark of the covenant that the prophet Moses was commanded to construct.—Hebrews 9:5.
32. How was Jehovah’s position with regard to the cherubs shown in the case of the golden ark constructed by Moses?
32 This golden ark or chest was used as a receptacle for sacred articles. It had a cover surmounted by two golden cherubs with wings spread out to cover the mercy seat or propitiatory. When this ark was placed in the Most Holy of the tabernacle or temple, a miraculous light (the Shekinah light) appeared above the wings of the cherubs. (Exodus 25:10-22; 2 Kings 19:15) Thus Jehovah was represented as throning above the cherubs and giving instructions from there. Moses tells of his own experience in this regard, when he writes: “Now whenever Moses went into the tent of meeting to speak with him, then he would hear the voice conversing with him from above the cover that was upon the ark of the testimony, from between the two cherubs; and he would speak to him.”—Numbers 7:89.
AN UNSEEN PLACE OF ACTIVITY
33. Why must heaven be a place of activity greater than that which is going on throughout the earth today?
33 Heaven is no place of ease and lounging around, like dangling one’s feet over the edge of a slow-moving cloud. The most active Person in all the realm of existence, the central Source of all dynamic energy, is there! His holy spirit as an active force is pervading all the unseen heavens. The activity of those inhabiting that realm and serving Jehovah must exceed by far all the activity that is going on throughout our earth today. Distances inconceivably greater than those possible on our earth or from here to the moon need to be covered in the service of the universal Sovereign, Jehovah God. Numberless are the things to be done, besides the giving of attention to our comparatively tiny planet, Earth. May we not blind ourselves to heavenly activities just because our weak eyes cannot actually see them. Every basis there is for us to see them by the eye of faith.—Hebrews 11:1, 27.
34, 35. How did the psalmist David express his recognition of the superior capabilities of heavenly angels, and what lesson can we humans learn from them?
34 In harmony with the purposes of the Lord God, his heavenly sons lead a most active life. They are capable of accomplishing far more than we humans can. They are superhuman. Their power we cannot measure. According to Bible history, they have, by holy spirit, been enabled to do things for which Science cannot account.
35 David recognized their superhuman ability when he lifted his attention to them and said: “Bless Jehovah, O you angels of his, mighty in power, carrying out his word, by listening to the voice of his word. Bless Jehovah, all you armies of his, you ministers of his, doing his will.” (Psalm 103:20, 21) In doing Jehovah’s will, those armies of heavenly angels set an excellent pattern for earthly man to imitate. If such mightily powerful superhuman creatures do not consider themselves to be too qualified in themselves to serve their Creator, then we frail, short-lived humans down here ought not to be so self-conceited and self-admiring as to be rebellious against Jehovah God, feeling absolutely no responsibility to him. Better is it for us to bless him.
36. How does holy spirit express itself in all the heavens, and why will unity up there not be sundered?
36 Holy spirit from god expresses itself in all the heavens as his only-begotten Son, his cherubs, his seraphs and all his angels lovingly serve him, the one living and true God. His spirit, imparted to all these loyal ones, produces among them a “oneness of the spirit in the uniting bond of peace,” to borrow a phrase from Ephesians 4:3. They all cooperate together under the Most High God, Jehovah. By their united service in all the variety of their duties, they are really worshiping him. Such unity of service and worship will never be sundered, not even by demons.
37. Who takes the lead in heaven in worshiping and serving God, and how was appreciation of that fact displayed in John’s vision in Revelation 5:11-14?
37 Taking the lead in rendering such unswerving service and worship to God is Jehovah’s “firstborn,” “his only-begotten Son.” This one was once willing to serve as a sacrificial Lamb here on earth. No less so than we Christians, the faithful heavenly throngs appreciate such self-sacrifice. In confirmation of this, the apostle John is given a vision of the heavenly scene that now finds fulfillment in our twentieth century, as follows:
“And I saw, and I heard a voice of many angels around the throne and the living creatures and the elders, and the number of them was myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands, saying with a loud voice: ‘The Lamb that was slaughtered is worthy to receive the power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing.’ And every creature that is in heaven and on earth and underneath the earth and on the sea, and all the things in them, I heard saying: ‘To the One sitting on the throne and to the Lamb be the blessing and the honor and the glory and the might forever and ever.’ And the four living creatures went saying: ‘Amen!’ and the elders fell down and worshiped.”—Revelation 5:11-14.
38. In view of that vision, what choice is there for us to make, and in what case will we be favored with holy spirit?
38 How about us who are now on the earth, yes, on the earth’s surface and not yet “underneath the earth” in burial places? There is a choice for us to make. Shall we take part in fulfilling that prophetic vision by joining in with the myriads of myriads of holy angels and giving due honor to the Lamblike Son of God and giving our heartfelt devotion to the One sitting on the throne, Jehovah God? If we choose to do this of our own free will, then, like the glorious heavenly throngs, we shall be favored with holy spirit from the Giver of every perfect gift, Jehovah God.—James 1:17. |
Creation (ce)
1985 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/ce | Picture Credits
Pictures listed in order of appearance on page
American Museum of Natural History, New York, courtesy of: 58.
Animals Animals/OSF, New York: 143; Animals Animals/E. R. Degginger, 144 (1).
British Museum, London, courtesy of: 210 (1), 213 (1) (2), 219 (1); Reproduced by courtesy of the Trustees of the British Museum: 210 (2), 213 (3).
French National Museums, Louvre Museum, Paris: 212 (2).
© 1982 Ira Block/THE IMAGE BANK, New York: 12, 13.
Kentucky Department of Travel Development: 67.
Land Management, Bureau of, Washington, D.C.: 69 (2).
National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Washington, D.C.: 11, 128, 186 (2).
National Archives, Washington, D.C.: 126 (1) (2), 224 (1), 225 (4).
National Park Service, Washington, D.C.: 64 (1) Chukchi Imuruk.
National Zoological Park, Washington, D.C.: 4 (1) and 69 (4) Brandy Clymire.
© Outdoor Pictures, Washington State: 54, 68.
Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C.: 203 Photo Number 83-2259.
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Washington, D.C.: 3 (3) Dean Biggins, 4 (2) William Hartgroves, 63 (2) Dean Biggins (3) Glen Smart, 64 (2) Dean Biggins (3) Dan Pfitzer, 68 (4) William Hartgroves, 69 (1) (3) Dean Biggins.
U.S. Geological Survey, Washington, D.C.: 225 (1).
Walters Art Gallery, Baltimore: 220.
World Health Organization: 224 (2) W. Cutting, 225 (2) Eric Schwab. |
Teacher (lr)
2003 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/lr | outputs
Chapter
1 Why Jesus Was a Great Teacher
2 A Letter From a Loving God
3 The One Who Made All Things
4 God Has a Name
5 “This Is My Son”
6 The Great Teacher Served Other People
7 Obedience Protects You
8 Others Are Higher Than We Are
9 We Need to Resist Temptations
10 Jesus’ Power Over the Demons
11 Help From God’s Angels
12 Jesus Teaches Us to Pray
13 Those Who Became Jesus’ Disciples
14 Why We Should Forgive
15 A Lesson on Being Kind
16 What Is Truly Important?
17 The Way to Be Happy
18 Do You Remember to Say Thank You?
19 Is It Right to Fight?
20 Do You Always Want to Be First?
21 Should We Brag About Anything?
22 Why We Should Not Lie
23 The Reason People Get Sick
24 Never Become a Thief!
25 Can Those Who Do Bad Things Change?
26 Why It Is Hard to Do Good
27 Who Is Your God?
28 How to Know Whom to Obey
29 Do All Parties Please God?
30 Help to Overcome Our Fears
31 Where to Find Comfort
32 How Jesus Was Protected
33 Jesus Can Protect Us
34 What Will Happen if We Die?
35 We Can Wake Up From Death!
36 Who Will Be Resurrected? Where Will They Live?
37 Remembering Jehovah and His Son
38 Why We Should Love Jesus
39 God Remembers His Son
40 How to Make God Happy
41 Children Who Make God Happy
42 Why We Need to Work
43 Who Are Our Brothers and Sisters?
44 Our Friends Should Love God
45 What Is God’s Kingdom? How to Show We Want It
46 Water Destroys a World—Will It Happen Again?
47 How We Can Tell Armageddon Is Near
48 God’s Peaceful New World—You Can Live There |
KEEP ON THE WATCH!
The Earth Is Being Ruined—What Does the Bible Say? | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/501100048 | KEEP ON THE WATCH!
The Earth Is Being Ruined—What Does the Bible Say?
“We are on a fast track to climate disaster. Major cities under water. Unprecedented heatwaves. Terrifying storms. Widespread water shortages. The extinction of a million species of plants and animals. This is not fiction or exaggeration. It is what science tells us will result from our current energy policies.”—Speech by António Guterres, secretary-general of the United Nations, concerning the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report issued on April 4, 2022.
“Scientists are raising the alarm that in the coming years destruction related to climate change will reach nearly all 423 national parks [in the United States], which are particularly vulnerable to rising temperatures. The litany of threats read like a biblical reckoning: fire and flood, melting ice sheets, rising seas and heat waves.”—“Flooding Chaos in Yellowstone, a Sign of Crises to Come,” The New York Times, June 15, 2022.
Can the earth’s environmental problems be solved? If so, who will solve them? Consider what the Bible actually says.
Environmental harm foretold
The Bible says that God will “bring to ruin those ruining the earth.” (Revelation 11:18) This Bible verse teaches us three things:
1. Human actions will significantly harm the earth.
2. The ruining of the earth will end.
3. God, not humans, will solve the planet’s environmental problems.
The future of our planet is secure
The Bible states that “the earth remains forever.” (Ecclesiastes 1:4) It will always be inhabited.
“The righteous will possess the earth, and they will live forever on it.”—Psalm 37:29.
The health of our planet will be completely restored.
“The wilderness and the parched land will exult, and the desert plain will be joyful and blossom as the saffron.”—Isaiah 35:1.
To learn why we can be sure that God will save our planet, read the article “Who Will Save the Earth?”
To see why we can be confident about our future despite the current climate change crisis, read the article “Climate Change and Our Future—What the Bible Says.”
To discover how the Bible can help you cope today with the challenges caused by environmental problems, read the article “Extreme Weather—Can the Bible Help You to Cope?” |
Our Fragile Planet—What of the Future? | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101996003 | Our Fragile Planet—What of the Future?
TWO hundred years ago, American statesman Patrick Henry said: “I know of no way of judging the future but by the past.” In the past, man has trampled on the environment. Will he turn over a new leaf in the future? So far, the signs are not encouraging.
Although some laudable progress has been made, it has mainly been cosmetic, addressing symptoms rather than causes. If a house has dry rot, painting the woodwork will not prevent its collapse. Only a major structural reform can save it. Similarly, there must be a restructuring of the way man uses this planet. Mere damage control will not suffice.
Analyzing the results of 20 years of environmental controls in the United States, one expert concludes that “the assault on the environment cannot be effectively controlled, but must be prevented.” Obviously, preventing pollution is much better than curing its ill effects. But achieving such a goal would require nothing less than a fundamental change in human society and in the focus of big business. The book Caring for the Earth acknowledges that caring for the earth requires “values, economies and societies different from most that prevail today.” What are some of these values that need to be changed for the sake of saving the planet?
Ingrained Causes of the Crisis
Selfishness. Putting the interests of the planet before those of exploiting humans is the first necessary step toward protecting the environment. Nevertheless, few are willing to relinquish an affluent life-style, even though it may be ruining the planet for future generations. When the government of the Netherlands—one of the most polluted countries of Western Europe—tried to limit car travel as part of an antipollution campaign, widespread opposition sabotaged the plan. Although Dutch roads are the most congested in the world, motorists just weren’t willing to give up their freedom.
Self-interest affects decision makers as well as the general public. Politicians are reluctant to implement environmental policies that might cost them votes, and industrialists balk at any proposals that may threaten profits and economic growth.
Greed. When it comes down to a choice between profits and conservation, money usually talks louder. Powerful industries lobby to minimize pollution control or to avoid government regulations altogether. The damage to the ozone layer exemplifies this problem. As late as March 1988, the chairman of a major U.S. chemical company stated: “At the moment, scientific evidence does not point to the need for dramatic CFC emission reductions.”
The same company, however, recommended phasing out chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) altogether. A change of heart? “It had nothing to do with whether the environment was being damaged or not,” explained Mostafa Tolba, director-general of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). “It was all [about] who was going to gain an [economic] edge over who.” Now many scientists realize that the destruction of the ozone layer is one of the worst man-made environmental catastrophes in history.
Ignorance. What we know is dwarfed by what we don’t know. “We still know relatively little about the abundance of life in tropical rain forests,” explains Peter H. Raven, director of the Missouri Botanical Garden. “Amazingly, we know more—much more—about the surface of the moon.” The same is true regarding the atmosphere. How much carbon dioxide can we keep on pumping into the sky without affecting the global climate? Nobody knows. But as Time magazine said, “it is reckless to subject nature to such giant experiments when the outcome is unknown and the possible consequences are too frightening to contemplate.”
According to UNEP estimates, it is possible that the ozone loss by the end of this decade will eventually cause hundreds of thousands of new cases of skin cancer every year. The effect on crops and fisheries is still unknown, but it is expected to be substantial.
Shortsighted viewpoints. Unlike other catastrophes, environmental problems creep up on us insidiously. This hampers attempts to drum up concerted action before lasting damage is done. The book Saving the Planet compares our present situation to that of the doomed passengers on the crippled Titanic in 1912: “Few are aware of the proportions of the potential tragedy.” The authors believe that the planet can only be saved if politicians and businessmen face up to reality and think in terms of long-term viability instead of short-term benefits.
Self-centered attitudes. At the Earth Summit in 1992, Spanish prime minister Felipe González pointed out that “the problem is global, and the solution cannot be other than global.” True enough, but finding solutions that are globally acceptable is a daunting task. A U.S. delegate to the Earth Summit said bluntly: “The American life-style is not up for negotiation.” Indian environmentalist Maneka Gandhi, on the other hand, complained that “one child in the West consumes as much as 125 in the East.” She claimed that “nearly all the environmental degradation in the East is due to consumption in the West.” Time and again, international attempts to improve the environment have foundered on the rocks of self-centered national interests.
Despite all these fundamental problems, there are reasons to look to the future with confidence. One of them is the resilience of our planet’s defense system.
The Healing of the Earth
Like the human body, the earth has an amazing capacity to heal itself. An outstanding example of this occurred last century. In 1883 the Indonesian volcanic island of Krakatau (Krakatoa) erupted in a gigantic explosion that was heard almost 3,000 miles [5,000 km] away. Nearly five cubic miles [21 cu km] of matter was hurled into the sky, and two thirds of the island disappeared under the sea. Nine months later the only sign of life was a microscopic spider. Today the whole island is covered by exuberant tropical vegetation, which is host to hundreds of species of birds, mammals, snakes, and insects. No doubt this recovery has been abetted by the protection the island enjoys as part of Ujung Kulon National Park.
Human damage can also be undone. Given time, the earth can heal itself. The question is, Will men give the earth the respite it needs? Probably not. But there is Someone who is determined to let our planet heal itself—the One who created it.
“Let the Earth Be Glad”
God never intended for man to ruin the earth. He told Adam to ‘cultivate and take care’ of the garden of Eden. (Genesis 2:15) Jehovah’s concern for protecting the environment was also manifest in many of the laws he gave to the Israelites. For example, they were told to let the land lie fallow once every seven years—the Sabbath year. (Exodus 23:10, 11) When the Israelites frequently ignored this and other divine commands, Jehovah finally allowed the Babylonians to depopulate the land, which then lay desolate for 70 years “until the land had paid off its sabbaths.” (2 Chronicles 36:21) In view of this historical precedent, it is not surprising that the Bible says that God will “bring to ruin those ruining the earth” so that the earth can recuperate from man’s environmental assault.—Revelation 11:18.
That action, however, will only be the first step. The planet’s survival, as biologist Barry Commoner rightly points out, “depends equally on ending the war with nature and on ending the wars among ourselves.” To achieve that goal, the people of the earth must be “taught by Jehovah” to care for one another and to care for their earthly home. As a result, their peace will be “abundant.”—Isaiah 54:13.
God assures us that there will be a renovation of the earth’s ecosystems. Instead of advancing relentlessly, the deserts will “blossom as the saffron.” (Isaiah 35:1) In place of food shortages, there will be “plenty of grain on the earth.” (Psalm 72:16) Rather than die from pollution, the earth’s rivers will “clap their hands.”—Psalm 98:8.
When will such a transformation be possible? When “Jehovah himself has become king.” (Psalm 96:10) God’s rule will guarantee a blessing for every living thing on earth. “Let the earth be glad,” says the psalmist. “Let the sea resound, and all that is in it; let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them. Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy.”—Psalm 96:11, 12, New International Version.
An earth blessed by its Creator and ruled in righteousness has a glorious future. The Bible describes the results: “Righteousness and peace—they have kissed each other. Trueness itself will sprout out of the very earth, and righteousness itself will look down from the very heavens. Also, Jehovah, for his part, will give what is good, and our own land will give its yield.” (Psalm 85:10-12) When that day dawns, our planet will be out of danger forever.
[Picture on page 13]
Like the human body, the earth has an amazing capacity to heal itself |
YOUNG PEOPLE ASK
Why Reject the Media Stereotype?—Part 2: For Boys | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502014340 | YOUNG PEOPLE ASK
Why Reject the Media Stereotype?—Part 2: For Boys
What is the media stereotype?
What you should know
What you can do
What is the media stereotype?
Look at these words, and then answer the questions that follow.
Column 1
Column 2
Rebellious
Respectful
Selfish
Loyal
Tough
Empathetic
Lazy
Industrious
Reckless
Responsible
Deceitful
Honest
Which words describe teenage boys as you see them depicted in the media (including movies, TV, and advertising)?
Which words describe how you would like to be known?
Likely, your answers to the first question came from column 1 and your answers to the second question came from column 2. If so, that’s good. Why? Because the media’s portrayal of males probably doesn’t reflect who you really are—or the kind of person you should become. Consider why.
The media often portrays males as violent and rebellious. The book Why Boys Don’t Talk—and Why It Matters notes that the most popular male characters on TV, in movies, and in sports are “those with great physical strength who exhibit aggression. . . . The message is that cool is defined by being tough and rebellious.”
To think about: Will an aggressive disposition help you become a better friend, coworker, or husband? When provoked, which takes greater strength—to vent your anger or to control it? Which would give evidence that you are a real man?
The Bible says: “The one slow to anger is better than a mighty man, and the one controlling his temper than one conquering a city.”—Proverbs 16:32.
If you control your temper, you’re stronger than a warrior
The media portrays males as obsessed with sex. “In movies and on TV, boys change girlfriends more often than they change their clothes,” says 17-year-old Chris. Gary, 18, takes it further. “The typical boy in the media is sex-obsessed,” he says. Some movies, for example, make it seem as if a boy’s only goals in life are to party, drink, and have sex.
To think about: Does that stereotype reflect the kind of reputation you want to have? Does a real man treat women as sex objects, or does he treat them with respect?
The Bible says: “Each one of you should know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not with greedy, uncontrolled sexual passion.”—1 Thessalonians 4:4, 5.
The media portrays boys as irresponsible. In many popular movies and TV shows, teenage boys are often shown as lazy and incompetent. Perhaps that’s why some adults have little confidence in the potential of boys. Gary, quoted earlier, says: “When I turned 16, I found it difficult to get a job because business owners in my area wanted to hire only women. They felt that all teenage boys were irresponsible or untrustworthy!”
To think about: Is the stereotype of the irresponsible and untrustworthy teenage boy fair? How can you show that you are different?
The Bible says: “Never let anyone look down on your youth. Instead, become an example to the faithful ones in speaking, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.”—1 Timothy 4:12; footnote.
What you should know
The media can have a powerful effect on you. For example, the media can make you feel that you need to adopt the current fashion trend to be popular. “Ads show what guys should dress like and show the girls hanging all over them,” says 17-year-old Colin. “It makes a person want to go out and buy those clothes. I’ve done that a few times!”
To think about: Does the way you dress reflect who you really are, or have you become a follower? Who really profits when you spend money to keep up with the latest trends in fashion?
The Bible says: “Stop being molded by this system of things.”—Romans 12:2.
Copying the stereotype could actually make you less appealing to girls. Consider what some of them have said:
“I would prefer a guy who is true to himself over one who is insecure and puts on a show to try to prove himself. Really, a boy who tries too hard only ends up looking ridiculous!”—Anna.
“Advertisers make boys feel as if they need to have certain gadgets or a certain look to appeal to girls. As girls get older, though, they look beyond those things. Instead, they see a man’s inner qualities and observe how he treats people. For example, girls like it when guys are honest and loyal.”—Danielle.
“Often, the ‘perfect-looking guy’ is haughty, and I don’t want to be around anyone like that. You could be the best-looking guy in the world, but you would be ugly if your personality didn’t match those looks.”—Diana.
To think about: Describing the boy Samuel, the Scriptures say that he “kept growing in stature and in favor both with Jehovah and with the people.” (1 Samuel 2:26) What qualities do you need to work on to have that kind of reputation?
The Bible says: “Carry on in a manly way.”—1 Corinthians 16:13.
What you can do
Question the stereotype. Note this statement in the Bible: “Everything in the world—the desire of the flesh and the desire of the eyes and the showy display of one’s means of life—does not originate with the Father, but originates with the world.”—1 John 2:16.
The media capitalizes on those very things and portrays them as normal. So learn to question what you see. It’s often no more than the creation of marketers who are out to make money.
Carve out your own path. The Bible says: “Clothe yourselves with the new personality, which through accurate knowledge is being made new according to the image of the One who created it”—not according to the image promoted by the media.—Colossians 3:10.
To help you follow that advice, think back to the qualities you identified at the beginning of this article—the qualities for which you would like to be known. Why not start working now either to acquire them or to improve in them?
Find positive role models. “The one walking with the wise will become wise,” states the Bible. (Proverbs 13:20) Which men in your life have shown themselves to be wise? Some might be in your family, such as your father or your uncle. Others could be mature male friends or acquaintances. Jehovah’s Witnesses have many exemplary men in the Christian congregation. The Bible itself contains role models, including Titus, who set a good example for young people to follow.—Titus 2:6-8.
Suggestion: Use the book Imitate Their Faith to learn about Bible examples of outstanding role models for men, including Abel, Noah, Abram, Samuel, Elijah, Jonah, Joseph, and Peter.
Did you know?
In the United States, the word “teenager” became popular in the 1940’s when marketers began grouping people according to their buying characteristics. Teenagers “were largely in the same place—high school—sharing a common experience, and they were young and open to new things,” says the book The Rise and Fall of the American Teenager. “They were, in short, easy to sell to.”
The English word “tween,” which describes boys and girls between the ages of 10 and 13, recently came into vogue in marketing circles. “There had been no such thing as a ‘tween identity’ until marketers made it up,” says the book Talk to Me First. “Once someone dreamed up the catchy and memorable moniker ‘tweens’ . . . , a brand-new marketing niche was born.” |
Young People Ask, Volume 1 (yp1)
2011 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/yp1 | CHAPTER 13
How Can I Stop Being So Sad?
“When everyone else falls apart, I’m there to fix their problems and make them feel better. But then—and this is the part that few people see—I go home to my room and cry.”—Kellie.
“When I’m down, I isolate myself. If I get invited somewhere, I come up with an excuse not to go. I do a good job at hiding my sadness from my family. They think I’m fine.”—Rick.
HAVE your thoughts ever been similar to those of Kellie or Rick? If so, don’t hastily conclude that there’s something wrong with you. The fact is, everyone gets sad now and then. Even faithful men and women of the Bible did.—1 Samuel 1:6-8; Psalm 35:14.
In some cases, you may know why you are sad; in other cases, you may not. “You don’t have to be in a horrible situation to feel sad,” says 19-year-old Anna. “It can come on at any time, even if your life is trouble free. It’s weird, but it happens!”
Regardless of the cause—or even if there doesn’t seem to be one—what can you do when sadness holds you in its grip? Try the following:
1. Talk about it. In the midst of his turmoil, Job said: “I will speak in the bitterness of my soul!”—Job 10:1.
Kellie: “The relief I feel after talking to someone is amazing. Finally, someone knows what I’m going through. They can lower the rope and pull me out of the pit—saved at last!”
Suggestion: Below, write the name of a friend in whom you could confide when sadness overwhelms you.
․․․․․
2. Write about it. When sadness clouds your outlook on life, you might want to try putting your thoughts on paper. In his inspired psalms, David sometimes expressed deep sadness. (Psalm 6:6) Writing about such feelings can help you to “safeguard practical wisdom and thinking ability.”—Proverbs 3:21.
Heather: “Writing helps me to organize the mental clutter that accumulates from sadness. When you can express your feelings and sort them out, the sadness is less overwhelming.”
Suggestion: Use the chart on page 93 to help you come up with better responses to trying situations. This will help you to relieve your sadness.
3. Pray about it. The Bible says that if you pray about your concerns, ‘the peace of God that excels all thought will guard your heart and your mental powers.’—Philippians 4:6, 7.
Esther: “I was trying to figure out why I felt so down, and I couldn’t. I asked Jehovah to help me to be happy. I was sick of being sad when I had no reason to be. I finally broke the cycle. Never underestimate the power of prayer!”
Suggestion: Use Psalm 139:23, 24 as a pattern for your own prayer to Jehovah. Pour out your heart, and ask him to help you identify the root of your sadness.
In addition to the suggestions above, you have a valuable resource in God’s Word, the Bible. Filling your mind with upbuilding thoughts that can be gleaned from Bible accounts can have a positive effect on your feelings. (Psalm 1:1-3) Suggestions for upbuilding Bible reading can be found by considering the “Role Model” pages in each volume of this book. On page 227 of Volume 2, you will even see how the apostle Paul successfully dealt with negative feelings that he sometimes experienced because of his imperfections.
When Sadness Won’t Go Away
“On some mornings,” says Ryan, “I feel that it would be easier just to stay in bed and avoid having to get up and face another pointless day.” Ryan suffers from clinical depression, and he’s not alone. Studies suggest that about 1 in 4 youths suffers from some type of depression before reaching adulthood.
How can you find out if you suffer from depression? Some symptoms include a pronounced change in mood and behavior, social isolation, diminished interest in almost all activities, a significant change in eating habits and sleeping patterns, and intense feelings of worthlessness or unwarranted guilt.
Of course, nearly everyone has one or more of those symptoms at some time or another. But if symptoms persist for more than a couple of weeks, why not talk to your parents about getting a checkup? A physician can help determine if your sadness has a medical cause.a
If you do suffer from clinical depression, there is nothing to be ashamed of. With treatment, many sufferers have begun to feel better—perhaps the best they have felt in a long time! Whether your sadness is caused by depression or not, remember the comforting words of Psalm 34:18: “Jehovah is near to those that are broken at heart; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.”
IN OUR NEXT CHAPTERWhat if your sadness is so overwhelming that you have considered ending your life?
[Footnote]
a When sadness is prolonged, some youths think about ending their life. If you have entertained such thoughts, talk to a trusted adult without delay.—For more information, see Chapter 14 of this book.
KEY SCRIPTURE
“Jehovah is near to those that are broken at heart; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.”—Psalm 34:18.
TIP
Describe how you feel when you’re sad and what you think may be at the root of your sadness. A month later, read what you wrote. Have your feelings on the matter changed? If so, write down what helped you.
DID YOU KNOW . . . ?
It’s OK to cry, even if you’re a boy. At one point in his life, King David admitted: “At night my bed and pillow are soaked with tears.”—Psalm 6:6, Contemporary English Version.
ACTION PLAN!
To help lift my spirits, I can engage in the following activities: ․․․․․
Associating with the following friends will help me alleviate sadness: ․․․․․
What I would like to ask my parent(s) about this subject is ․․․․․
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
● Are there benefits to shedding tears?
● How can being around others help you cope with sadness?
[Blurb on page 96]
“When I’m sad, I need to avoid isolating myself. Yes, I may need to be alone to process my thoughts and maybe have a good cry. But after that, I know I need to be around people to get my mind off whatever was making me sad.”—Christine
[Chart/Pictures on page 93]
Worksheet
To Relieve Your Sadness
Complete the chart
Event
A teacher makes me feel worthless
Poor response
I give up trying to succeed in that class
Better response
Clue: See Chapter 20 of this book
Event
A friend ignores me
Poor response
Spread negative rumors about the person
Better response
Clue: See Chapter 10 of Volume 2
Event
My parents are divorcing
Poor response
Harbor resentment toward one or both parents
Better response
Clue: See Chapter 4 of this book
Event
․․․․․
Poor response
․․․․․
Better response
․․․․․
Event
․․․․․
Poor response
․․․․․
Better response
․․․․․
[Picture on page 95]
With assistance and effort, you can get out of a deep pit of sadness |
How to Break the Cycle of Hatred | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2022015 | How to Break the Cycle of Hatred
God’s Word, the Bible, has the power to help people change for the better. (Hebrews 4:12) Its teachings have enabled countless people to overcome the hatred they once felt toward others. Let us consider four Bible teachings that have helped many people to break the cycle of hatred. |
Jesus Saves—How? | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502018118 | Jesus Saves—How?
The Bible’s answer
Jesus saved faithful humans when he gave his life as a ransom sacrifice. (Matthew 20:28) Thus, the Bible calls Jesus the “Savior of the world.” (1 John 4:14) It also states: “There is no salvation in anyone else, for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must get saved.”—Acts 4:12.
Jesus ‘tasted death for everyone’ who exercises faith in him. (Hebrews 2:9; John 3:16) Thereafter, “God raised him up from the dead,” and Jesus returned to heaven as a spirit creature. (Acts 3:15) There, Jesus is able “to save completely those who are approaching God through him, because he is always alive to plead for them.”—Hebrews 7:25.
Why do we need Jesus to plead for us?
We are all sinners. (Romans 3:23) Sin puts a barrier between us and God, and it leads to death. (Romans 6:23) But Jesus serves as “an advocate” for those who exercise faith in his ransom sacrifice. (1 John 2:1, footnote) He pleads in their behalf, asking God to hear their prayers and grant forgiveness of their sins on the basis of Jesus’ sacrificial death. (Matthew 1:21; Romans 8:34) God acts on such pleas made by Jesus because they are in harmony with His will. God sent Jesus to the earth “for the world to be saved through him.”—John 3:17.
Is belief in Jesus all that we need to be saved?
No. Although we must believe in Jesus to gain salvation, more is required. (Acts 16:30, 31) The Bible says: “Just as the body without spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead.” (James 2:26) To be saved, we must:
Learn about Jesus and his Father, Jehovah.—John 17:3.
Build faith in them.—John 12:44; 14:1.
Demonstrate our faith by obeying their commands. (Luke 6:46; 1 John 2:17) Jesus taught that not everyone who called him “Lord” would be saved but only those “doing the will of [his] Father who is in the heavens.”—Matthew 7:21.
Continue to demonstrate our faith despite hardships. Jesus made that clear when he said: “The one who has endured to the end will be saved.”—Matthew 24:13. |
Truth (tr)
1981 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/tr | outputs
PAGE CHAPTER
5 1 Grand Blessings from God Near at Hand!
11 2 Why It Is Wise to Examine Your Religion
17 3 Who Is God?
27 4 Why We Grow Old and Die
34 5 Where Are the Dead?
46 6 Jesus Christ, the One Through Whom God Blesses Mankind
55 7 Are There Wicked Spirits?
65 8 Why Has God Permitted Wickedness Until Our Day?
75 9 The Reason Why a “Little Flock” Goes to Heaven
82 10 God’s Kingdom Comes to Power in the Midst of Its Enemies
94 11 The Last Days of This Wicked System of Things
102 12 Righteous Rule Makes Earth a Paradise
114 13 The True Church and Its Foundation
122 14 How to Identify the True Religion
131 15 “Get Out from Among Them”
140 16 Popular Customs That Displease God
151 17 How to Pray and Be Heard by God
157 18 Christian Obedience to Law
163 19 Godly Respect for Life and Blood
170 20 Building a Happy Family Life
181 21 Your Decision to Serve God
187 22 True Worship—a Way of Life
Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations in this book are from the modern-language New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, revised edition of 1961.
Abbreviations of names of other Bible versions quoted:
AT — The Bible: An American Translation, by J. Smith and E. Goodspeed, of 1935.
AV — Authorized or King James Version Bible, of 1611.
Dy — Roman Catholic Douay Version, of 1610. |
Creation (ce)
1985 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/ce | Chapter 15
Why Do Many Accept Evolution?
1, 2. What is one reason why many people believe evolution?
AS WE have seen, the evidence for creation is enormous. Why, then, do many people reject creation and accept evolution instead? One reason is what they were taught in school. Science textbooks nearly always promote the evolutionary viewpoint. The student is rarely, if ever, exposed to opposing arguments. In fact, arguments against evolution are usually prevented from appearing in school textbooks.
2 In the magazine American Laboratory a biochemist wrote this about his children’s schooling: “The child is not presented with evolution as a theory. Subtle statements are made in science texts as early as the second grade (based on my reading of my children’s textbooks). Evolution is presented as reality, not as a concept that can be questioned. The authority of the educational system then compels belief.” Regarding evolutionary teaching in higher grades, he said: “A student is not permitted to hold personal beliefs or to state them: if the student does so, he or she is subjected to ridicule and criticism by the instructor. Often the student risks academic loss because his or her views are not ‘correct’ and the grade is lowered.”1
3. How are some people conditioned to accept evolution?
3 Evolutionary views permeate not only the schools but all areas of science and other fields such as history and philosophy. Books, magazine articles, motion pictures and television programs treat it as an established fact. Often we hear or read phrases such as, ‘When man evolved from the lower animals,’ or, ‘Millions of years ago, when life evolved in the oceans.’ Thus, people are conditioned to accept evolution as a fact, and contrary evidence passes unnoticed.
Weight of Authority
4. How is the weight of authority brought to bear on evolution’s behalf?
4 When leading educators and scientists assert that evolution is a fact, and imply that only the ignorant refuse to believe it, how many laymen are going to contradict them? This weight of authority that is brought to bear on evolution’s behalf is a major reason for its acceptance by large numbers of people.
5. (a) What example shows how scientists often use their weight of authority? (b) Why are such assertions in error?
5 An example typical of views that often intimidate laymen is this assertion by Richard Dawkins: “Darwin’s theory is now supported by all the available relevant evidence, and its truth is not doubted by any serious modern biologist.”2 But is this actually the case? Not at all. A little research will reveal that many scientists, including ‘serious modern biologists,’ not only doubt evolution but do not believe it.3 They believe that the evidence for creation is far, far stronger. Thus, sweeping statements like that of Dawkins are in error. But they are typical of attempts to bury opposition by means of such language. Noting this, an observer wrote in New Scientist: “Does Richard Dawkins have so little faith in the evidence for evolution that he has to make sweeping generalisations in order to dismiss opponents to his beliefs?”4
6. How is evolutionary dogmatism contrary to the accepted scientific method?
6 In similar fashion the book A View of Life, by evolutionists Luria, Gould and Singer, states that “evolution is a fact,” and asserts: “We might as well doubt that the earth revolves about the sun, or that hydrogen and oxygen make water.”5 It also declares that evolution is as much a fact as the existence of gravity. But it can be proved experimentally that the earth revolves around the sun, that hydrogen and oxygen make water, and that gravity exists. Evolution cannot be proved experimentally. Indeed, these same evolutionists admit that “debate rages about theories of evolution.”6 But do debates still rage about the earth revolving around the sun, about hydrogen and oxygen making water, and about the existence of gravity? No. How reasonable is it, then, to say that evolution is as much a fact as these things are?
7. Why do scientists not always base their conclusions on facts?
7 In a foreword to John Reader’s book Missing instructions, David Pilbeam shows that scientists do not always base their conclusions on facts. One reason, says Pilbeam, is that scientists “are also people and because much is at stake, for there are glittering prizes in the form of fame and publicity.” The book acknowledges that evolution is “a science powered by individual ambitions and so susceptible to preconceived beliefs.” As an example it notes: “When preconception is . . . so enthusiastically welcomed and so long accommodated as in the case of Piltdown Man, science reveals a disturbing predisposition towards belief before investigation.” The author adds: “Modern [evolutionists] are no less likely to cling to erroneous data that supports their preconceptions than were earlier investigators . . . [who] dismissed objective assessment in favour of the notions they wanted to believe.”7 So, because of having committed themselves to evolution, and a desire to further their careers, some scientists will not admit the possibility of error. Instead, they work to justify preconceived ideas rather than acknowledge possibly damaging facts.
8. Why did W. R. Thompson deplore the wholesale conversion to belief in evolution?
8 This unscientific attitude was noted and deplored by W. R. Thompson in his foreword to the centennial edition of Darwin’s The Origin of Species. Thompson stated: “If arguments fail to resist analysis, assent should be withheld, and a wholesale conversion due to unsound argument must be regarded as deplorable.” He said: “The facts and interpretations on which Darwin relied have now ceased to convince. The long-continued investigations on heredity and variation have undermined the Darwinian position.”8
9. What did Thompson say about scientists suppressing criticism of evolution?
9 Thompson also observed: “A long-enduring and regrettable effect of the success of the Origin was the addiction of biologists to unverifiable speculation. . . . The success of Darwinism was accompanied by a decline in scientific integrity.” He concluded: “This situation, where scientific men rally to the defence of a doctrine they are unable to define scientifically, much less demonstrate with scientific rigour, attempting to maintain its credit with the public by the suppression of criticism and the elimination of difficulties, is abnormal and undesirable in science.”9
10. Why do many scientists accept evolution as “fact”?
10 Similarly, a professor of anthropology, Anthony Ostric, criticized his scientific colleagues for declaring “as a fact” that man descended from apelike creatures. He said that “at best it is only a hypothesis and not a well-supported one at that.” He noted that “there is no evidence that man has not remained essentially the same since the first evidence of his appearance.” The anthropologist said that the vast body of professionals have fallen in behind those who promote evolution “for fear of not being declared serious scholars or of being rejected from serious academic circles.”10 In this regard, Hoyle and Wickramasinghe also comment: “You either believe the concepts or you will inevitably be branded as a heretic.”11 One result of this has been an unwillingness by many scientists to investigate the creation viewpoint without prejudice. As a letter to the editor of Hospital Practice observed: “Science has always prided itself upon its objectivity, but I’m afraid that we scientists are rapidly becoming victims of the prejudiced, closed-minded thinking that we have so long abhorred.”12
Failure of Religion
11. How has religion’s failure been a factor in the acceptance of evolution?
11 An additional reason for evolution’s acceptance is the failure of conventional religion in both what it teaches and what it does, as well as its failure to represent properly the Bible’s creation account. Informed persons are well aware of the religious record of hypocrisy, oppression and inquisitions. They have observed clergy support for murderous dictators. They know that people of the same religion have killed one another by the millions in war, with the clergy backing each side. So they find no reason for considering the God whom those religions are supposed to represent. Too, absurd and unbiblical doctrines further this alienation. Such ideas as eternal torment—that God will roast people in a literal hellfire forever—are repugnant to reasoning persons.
12. What does the failure of this world’s religions really show?
12 However, not only are reasoning persons repelled by such religious teachings and actions, but the evidence in the Bible is that God also is repelled. Indeed, the Bible frankly exposes the hypocrisy of certain religious leaders. For example, it says of them: “You also, outwardly indeed, appear righteous to men, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.” (Matthew 23:28) Jesus told the common people that their clergy were “blind guides” who taught, not what comes from God, but contrary “commands of men as doctrines.” (Matthew 15:9, 14) Similarly, the Bible condemns religionists who “publicly declare they know God, but [who] disown him by their works.” (Titus 1:16) So, despite their claims, religions that have promoted or condoned hypocrisy and bloodshed do not originate with God, nor do they represent him. Instead, they are called “false prophets,” and are compared to trees that produce “worthless fruit.”—Matthew 7:15-20; John 8:44; 13:35; 1 John 3:10-12.
13. What lack of guidance is evident in religion?
13 Also, many religions have capitulated on the matter of evolution, thus providing no alternative for their people. For example, the New Catholic Encyclopedia states: “General evolution, even of the body of man, seems the most probable scientific account of origins.”13 At a Vatican meeting, 12 scholars representing the highest scientific body of the Catholic Church agreed to this conclusion: “We are convinced that masses of evidence render the application of the concept of evolution to man and other primates beyond serious dispute.”14 With such religious endorsement, are uninformed church members likely to resist even when, in reality, “masses of evidence” do not support evolution, but, instead, actually support creation?
14. How is the vacuum caused by false religion often filled?
14 The vacuum that this causes is often filled by agnosticism and atheism. Abandoning belief in God, people accept evolution as the alternative. Today, in a number of lands, atheism based on evolution is even the official state policy. Responsibility for much of this disbelief can be laid at the feet of this world’s religions.
15. What other erroneous religious ideas discourage belief in God and the Bible?
15 Too, some religious doctrines cause people to believe that the Bible teaches things contrary to scientific fact, so they reject the God of the Bible. For example, as noted in an earlier chapter, some erroneously claim the Bible teaches that the earth was created in six literal 24-hour days, and that it is only 6,000 years old. But the Bible does not teach these things.
‘Seeing Is Believing’
16. Why do some people reject the concept of a Creator?
16 Some people sincerely reject the concept of a Creator because they feel, as it has been said, that ‘seeing is believing.’ If something cannot be seen or measured in some way, then they may feel that it does not exist. True, in daily life they acknowledge the existence of many things that cannot be seen, such as electricity, magnetism, radio or television waves and gravity. Yet, this does not alter their view, because all these things can still be measured or sensed by some other physical means. But there is no physical way to see or measure a Creator, or God.
17, 18. (a) What evidence that we can see verifies the existence of an unseen Creator? (b) Why should we not expect to see God?
17 However, as we have seen in previous chapters, there is sound reason to believe that an unseen Creator does exist because we can observe the evidence, the physical results of his handiwork. We see it in the technical perfection and intricacy of atomic structure, in the magnificently organized universe, in the unique planet Earth, in the amazing designs of living things and in man’s awesome brain. These are effects that must have an adequate cause to account for their existence. Even materialists accept this law of cause and effect in all other matters. Why not also regarding the physical universe itself?
18 On this point, the Bible’s simple argument puts it best: “[The Creator’s] invisible attributes, that is to say his everlasting power and deity, have been visible, ever since the world began, to the eye of reason, in the things he has made.” (Romans 1:20, The New English Bible) In other words, the Bible reasons from effect to cause. The visible creation, the awesome “things he has made,” are an evident effect that must have an intelligent cause. That invisible cause is God. Too, as the Maker of all the universe, the Creator no doubt possesses power so enormous that humans of flesh and blood should not expect to see God and survive. As the Bible comments: “No man may see [God] and yet live.”—Exodus 33:20.
Another Major Reason for Disbelief
19. What is another major reason why many accept evolution?
19 There is another major reason why many people abandon belief in God and accept evolution. It is because of the prevalence of suffering. For centuries there has been so much injustice, oppression, crime, war, sickness and death. Many persons do not understand why all these hardships have come upon the human family. They feel that an all-powerful Creator would not have allowed such things. Since these conditions do exist, they feel that God could not exist. Thus, when evolution is presented they accept it as the only choice, often without much investigation.
20. What questions need answering?
20 Why, then, would an all-powerful Creator permit so much suffering? Will it forever be this way? Understanding the answer to this problem will, in turn, enable one to understand the deeper, underlying reason for the theory of evolution becoming so widespread in our time.
[Blurb on page 179]
The student is rarely given opposing arguments
[Blurb on page 180]
Evolutionary teaching permeates science and other fields
[Blurb on page 180]
Many educators and scientists say or imply that only the ignorant disbelieve evolution
[Blurb on page 182]
“[Evolutionary] science reveals a disturbing predisposition towards belief before investigation”
[Blurb on page 182]
“The facts and interpretations on which Darwin relied have now ceased to convince”
[Blurb on page 183]
“The suppression of criticism . . . is abnormal and undesirable in science”
[Blurb on page 185]
The vacuum caused by religious error often leads to acceptance of evolution
[Blurb on page 187]
Because suffering exists, many abandon belief in God and accept evolution
[Pictures on page 181]
Do debates still rage about the earth orbiting the sun, about hydrogen and oxygen making water, about gravity’s existence?
Orbit
Water
Gravity
[Picture on page 184]
Clergy backing of both sides in war, intolerance, and false teachings such as hellfire alienate many
[Pictures on page 186]
The existence of a Creator is evidenced by “the things made” |
What Kind of Love Brings True Happiness? | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2018246 | What Kind of Love Brings True Happiness?
“Happy is the people whose God is Jehovah!”—PS. 144:15.
SONGS: 111, 109
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER?
How can we avoid loving ourselves excessively?
Why are lovers of money not truly happy?
How might we evaluate our pursuit of pleasure?
1. Why is the time that we live in unique?
WE LIVE in a time of human history that is truly unique. As the Bible foretold, Jehovah is gathering “a great crowd . . . out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues.” Those gathered constitute “a mighty nation” of more than eight million happy people who “are rendering [God] sacred service day and night.” (Rev. 7:9, 15; Isa. 60:22) Never before have there been so many who have come to love both God and their fellow man.
2. What misdirected kind of love characterizes people who are alienated from God? (See opening picture.)
2 Yet, the inspired Scriptures also foretold that in our day, a misdirected kind of love characterized by selfishness would be shown by people who are alienated from God. The apostle Paul wrote: “In the last days . . . , men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, . . . lovers of pleasures rather than lovers of God.” (2 Tim. 3:1-4) This self-centered kind of love is inconsistent with Christian love; it stands in contrast with it. Pursuing selfish goals does not bring people the happiness that they expect. Indeed, such love fosters a selfish world that is “hard to deal with.”
3. What will we analyze in this article, and why?
3 Paul recognized that widespread, selfish love would pose dangers for Christians. Hence, he gave the warning to “turn away” from those whose love is misdirected. (2 Tim. 3:5) However, we cannot avoid all contact with such people. So how can we turn away from the worldly attitudes that surround us and strive to please Jehovah, the God of love? Let us contrast godly love with the love described at 2 Timothy 3:2-4. Doing so will help us evaluate and refine the love that we should show, the kind of love that brings true satisfaction and happiness.
LOVE OF GOD OR LOVE OF SELF?
4. Why is it not wrong to have a balanced love of self?
4 “Men will be lovers of themselves,” wrote the inspired apostle. Is it wrong for us to love ourselves? No, it is normal, even necessary, to have a healthy love of self. Jehovah designed us that way. Jesus said: “You must love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mark 12:31) If we do not love ourselves, we cannot love our neighbor. We also read in the Scriptures: “Husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. A man who loves his wife loves himself, for no man ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cherishes it.” (Eph. 5:28, 29) So a proper love of self is desirable.
5. How would you describe those who have an excessive love of self?
5 The love of self mentioned at 2 Timothy 3:2 is not a normal, healthy love. It is a distorted, selfish love. People who love themselves excessively think more of themselves than it is necessary for them to think. (Read Romans 12:3.) Their main interest in life is themselves. They care little about others. When things go wrong, they tend to blame others rather than accept responsibility. One Bible commentary likens those who are lovers of themselves to “the hedgehog which . . . rolls itself up in a ball, keeping the soft, warm wool for itself . . . and . . . presents the sharp spines to those without.” Such self-centered people are not truly happy.
6. What results come from a love of God?
6 Bible scholars suggest that love of self is put at the top of the apostle Paul’s list of negative qualities that would be prevalent during the last days because the other qualities result from it. In contrast, people who love God produce a much different kind of fruitage. The Bible associates godly love with joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness, and self-control. (Gal. 5:22, 23) “Happy is the people whose God is Jehovah!” wrote the psalmist. (Ps. 144:15) Jehovah is a happy God, and his people reflect that quality. Furthermore, unlike those who are lovers of themselves and who are interested only in receiving, Jehovah’s servants find delight in giving of themselves for the welfare of others.—Acts 20:35.
How can we avoid becoming lovers of ourselves? (See paragraph 7)
7. What questions will help us to analyze our love of God?
7 How can we determine if our love of God is being eclipsed by love of self? Consider the admonition found at Philippians 2:3, 4: “Do nothing out of outputiousness or out of egotism, but with humility consider others superior to you, as you look out not only for your own interests, but also for the interests of others.” We might ask ourselves: ‘Do I apply that counsel in my life? Am I genuinely seeking to do God’s will? Do I reach out to help others, both in the congregation and in the field ministry?’ Giving of ourselves is not always easy. It requires effort and self-sacrifice. But what could make us happier than knowing that we have the approval of the Sovereign of the universe?
8. What has the love of God moved some to do?
8 Love of God has moved some to give up potentially lucrative careers to serve Jehovah more fully. Ericka, who lives in the United States, is a physician. But instead of pursuing a prestigious position in medicine, she became a regular pioneer and has served in several countries with her husband. Thinking back, she says: “The many experiences we have had in helping out in a foreign-language field, along with the friendships we have made, have truly enriched our lives. I still practice medicine, but being able to focus most of my time and energy on helping to heal people spiritually and on caring for the needs of the congregation brings me heartfelt joy and inner satisfaction.”
RICHES IN HEAVEN OR RICHES ON EARTH?
9. Why does a love of money not bring happiness?
9 Paul wrote that people would be “lovers of money.” Some years ago, a pioneer in Ireland spoke to a man about God. The man took out his wallet, removed some paper money, held it up, and proudly said, “This is my god!” Though not many would be so open about the matter, the world is full of people who love money and the things it can buy. Yet, the Bible cautions: “A lover of silver will never be satisfied with silver, nor a lover of wealth with income.” (Eccl. 5:10) Such people will always want more money, and striving to amass it, they will bring on themselves “many pains.”—1 Tim. 6:9, 10.
10. What does the Bible say about riches and poverty?
10 We all need money, of course. It provides a measure of protection. (Eccl. 7:12) But can a person be truly happy if he has only enough for his basic needs? Absolutely! (Read Ecclesiastes 5:12.) Agur son of Jakeh wrote: “Give me neither poverty nor riches. Just let me consume my portion of food.” We can readily understand his reason for not wanting to be extremely poor. As he went on to explain, he did not want to be tempted to steal because theft would dishonor God. But why did he pray not to have riches? He wrote: “So that I do not become satisfied and deny you and say, ‘Who is Jehovah?’” (Prov. 30:8, 9) Likely you can think of people who trust in their wealth rather than in God.
11. What counsel did Jesus give about money?
11 Those who love money cannot please God. Jesus said: “No one can slave for two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stick to the one and despise the other. You cannot slave for God and for Riches.” He prefaced that by saying: “Stop storing up for yourselves treasures on the earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal. Rather, store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes, and where thieves do not break in and steal.”—Matt. 6:19, 20, 24.
12. How may a simple life make it easier to serve God? Give an example.
12 Many have found that living a simple life not only makes them happier but also gives them more time to serve Jehovah. Jack, who lives in the United States, sold his large home and business because he knew that doing so would make it possible for him to pioneer with his wife. He reflects: “It was hard to give up our beautiful home and property in the country. Yet, for years, I would come home frustrated because of problems at work. My wife, a regular pioneer, was always so happy. She would say, ‘I have the greatest boss ever!’ Now that I too am pioneering, we both work for the same Person, Jehovah.”
How can we avoid becoming lovers of money? (See paragraph 13)
13. How might we analyze our view of money?
13 To analyze our view of money, we might honestly consider how we would answer these questions: ‘Do I really believe and live in harmony with what the Bible says about money? Does making money come first in my life? Do I value material things more than my relationship with Jehovah and with people? Do I really trust in Jehovah to care for my needs?’ We can be sure that he will never disappoint those hoping in him.—Matt. 6:33.
SEEKING JEHOVAH OR SEEKING PLEASURES?
14. What is a reasonable view of pleasures?
14 As foretold, many people today are “lovers of pleasures.” Just as there is nothing wrong with a healthy, reasonable view of self and money, there is nothing wrong with a balanced view of pleasures. Jehovah does not want us to practice severe self-denial or to abstain from wholesome activities that bring enjoyment. The Bible encourages faithful ones: “Go, eat your food with rejoicing, and drink your wine with a cheerful heart.”—Eccl. 9:7.
15. What type of pleasures is referred to at 2 Timothy 3:4?
15 Second Timothy 3:4 refers to a pursuit of pleasures that excludes God. Notice that the verse does not say that people would love pleasures more than God, implying that they would have some love for him. It says ‘rather than God.’ One scholar wrote: “This [verse] definitely does not mean that they also love God to some extent. It means that they do not love God at all.” What a sobering warning to those who are nurturing an inordinate love of pleasures! The phrase “lovers of pleasures” aptly describes those who are “carried away by . . . pleasures of this life.”—Luke 8:14.
16, 17. What example did Jesus set in the matter of pleasures?
16 Jesus displayed a perfectly balanced view of pleasures. He attended “a marriage feast” and “a big reception feast.” (John 2:1-10; Luke 5:29) At the wedding, he miraculously changed water into wine, adding to the supply, which had run short. And on another occasion, he rejected the self-righteous views of those who criticized him for eating and drinking.—Luke 7:33-36.
17 Yet, Jesus did not immerse himself in a life of pleasure. He put Jehovah first and expended himself tirelessly in behalf of others. So that many might live, he willingly endured a painful death on a stake. Addressing those who would follow in his footsteps, Jesus said: “Happy are you when people reproach you and persecute you and lyingly say every sort of wicked thing against you for my sake. Rejoice and be overjoyed, since your reward is great in the heavens, for in that way they persecuted the prophets prior to you.”—Matt. 5:11, 12.
How can we avoid becoming lovers of pleasures? (See paragraph 18)
18. What questions will help us to analyze how much we love pleasures?
18 How might we analyze how much we love pleasures? We do well to ask ourselves: ‘Do meetings and field service take second place to entertainment? Am I willing to practice self-denial because I want to serve God? In seeking pleasurable activities, do I consider how Jehovah will view my choices?’ If we truly love God, we will be careful to avoid not only the things we know will displease him but also the things we merely suspect may displease him.—Read Matthew 22:37, 38.
THE WAY OF HAPPINESS
19. Who can never be truly happy?
19 After some 6,000 years of human misery, Satan’s world is coming to its end. The earth is filled with those who have an inordinate love of self, money, and pleasures. They are people who are eager for what they can get, people who place their own wishes at the center of their life. Such people can never be truly happy. Instead, it is as the psalmist wrote: “Happy is the one who has the God of Jacob as his helper, whose hope is in Jehovah his God.”—Ps. 146:5.
20. How has the love of God brought you happiness?
20 The love of God flourishes among Jehovah’s people, and our ranks are growing every year. This is evidence that God’s Kingdom reigns and will soon bring to earth unimaginable blessings. True and lasting joy comes from doing God’s will, from knowing that we are pleasing the Supreme One. And those who love Jehovah will be joyful forever! In the next article, we will consider some of the qualities that result from selfish love and see how these contrast with the qualities found in Jehovah’s servants. |
From Our Archives
Preserving Gems From Our Past | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2012047 | From Our Archives
Preserving Gems From Our Past
JEHOVAH’S people have a very rich spiritual heritage. The fascinating record of that heritage can be gleaned not only from publications but also from photographs, letters, personal accounts, and artifacts related to our worship, our preaching work, and our history. But of what benefit is it to preserve such material and delve into our past? Well, family heads in ancient Israel were to make known to their sons the laws and wonderful acts of Jehovah so that they might “set their confidence in God himself.”—Ps. 78:1-7.
Archival research has long played a role in the outworking of Jehovah’s purpose. When opposers tried to stop work on the temple in Jerusalem, for instance, an official search of records in the archives at the Median capital of Ecbatana brought to light a document issued by King Cyrus authorizing such construction. (Ezra 6:1-4, 12) Thus, the temple was rebuilt in harmony with God’s will. Archival sources were also used by the Gospel writer Luke, who “traced all things from the start with accuracy.”—Luke 1:1-4.
The Governing Body is keenly interested in our theocratic history. In commenting on the need to preserve, document, and pass on our spiritual heritage, one member of the Governing Body said, “To know where we are going, we have to know where we have come from.” To that end, Writing Archives was recently set up at world headquarters in Brooklyn, New York, and is under the direction of the Writing Committee.
OUR “FAMILY ALBUM” AND “HEIRLOOMS”
With time, the past recedes, and most of us likely wish we had kept a more complete personal family record. In Writing Archives, diligent work is now under way to preserve and document our rich and growing legacy. Photographs carefully held in the Archives could be considered part of our “family album.” Our early publications, thrilling first-person accounts, and priceless memorabilia are also among the gems held in the Archives. Such items are “heirlooms” that enlighten us about our theocratic heritage and help us to look forward with confidence to the future of our spiritual family.
We invite you to look into Writing Archives through the new feature “From Our Archives.” It will appear periodically in the study edition of The Watchtower. In a coming issue, for example, we plan to publish an illustrated account designed to answer these questions: What was a Dawn Mobile? By whom was it used? When was it in use, and for what purpose?
Like a family album of memories, the Archives collection tells us much about us and our spiritual forebears—about the faith and courage of those who have gone before us, about the joys and challenges of serving our loving heavenly Father, and about God’s guidance and unfailing support of his people. (Deut. 33:27) We are confident that Jehovah will bless ongoing efforts to preserve our spiritual history so that we are ever more united and strengthened to carry out his will.
[Box/Picture on page 31]
A Closer Look
During the preparation of Christian literature, DVDs, and other Bible-based material, our writers, artists, researchers, and others draw on archival resources. Writing Archives therefore takes great care and practical steps to gather and preserve a wide range of historical materials from such sources as branch offices, Bethel departments, congregations, individuals, and secular institutions. Consider the following overview of this work:
Acquisition and Analysis: Unique items are continually being added to the Archives collection. Many of these are kindly donated or are loaned by individuals whose families have decades-long records of faithful service to Jehovah. Analyzing and comparing such material helps to increase our understanding of our history and of those who lived through it.
Cataloging: The Writing Archives collection is made up of thousands of items, some more than a century old. They come in different shapes, sizes, and formats and must be carefully cataloged for future use.
Restoration and Preservation: Fragile books and artifacts are repaired and preserved using professional restoration methods. Documents, photographs, news clippings, films, and recordings are digitized. They can therefore be accessed electronically to avoid handling original documents or other items of historical value.
Storage and Retrieval: Archival materials are stored in an orderly and secure way to prevent loss and to protect them against damage from light and moisture. A database is being developed as an aid in research and retrieval of these precious gems from our past.
[Pictures on page 32]
1. Poster for the “Photo-Drama of Creation.” 2. Subscription register. 3. Sound car. 4. Cover of the April 15, 1912, Watch Tower. 5. J. F. Rutherford’s prison notice. 6. WBBR microphone. 7. Phonograph. 8. Carrying case for books. 9. Personal notes. 10. Telegram to J. F. Rutherford. |
Revelation Climax (re)
1988 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/re | Chapter 1
Revelation—Its Happy Climax!
1. How do we know that God wants us to be happy?
A REVELATION TO JOHN—this thrilling book of the Bible brings the divine record to a happy climax. Why do we say “happy”? Well, the Author of the Bible is described as “the happy God,” who entrusts “glorious good news” to those who love him. He wants us to be happy too. Thus, at the outset Revelation assures us: “Happy is he who reads . . . the words of this prophecy.” In its final chapter we are told: “Happy is anyone observing the words of the prophecy of this scroll.”—1 Timothy 1:11; Revelation 1:3; 22:7.
2. What must we do to find happiness through the book of Revelation?
2 How do we find happiness through the book of Revelation? We do so by searching out the meaning of its vivid signs, or symbols, and acting in harmony therewith. Mankind’s turbulent history will soon reach a catastrophic climax, as God and Jesus Christ execute judgment on today’s wicked system, replacing it with “a new heaven and a new earth,” where even “death will be no more.” (Revelation 21:1, 4) Do not all of us want to live in such a new world, in true peace and security? We can if we build up our faith through study of God’s Word, including the stirring prophecy of Revelation.
Apocalypse—What Is It?
3. What do many people think that Apocalypse and Armageddon mean?
3 Is not Revelation also called Apocalypse? That is so, “revelation” being the English translation of a·po·kaʹly·psis in the Greek text. Many people equate Apocalypse with world destruction by nuclear warfare. In a Texas, U.S.A., city where great numbers of nuclear warheads were made, religiously inclined people used to say, “We’ll be the first to go.” Clergymen in that area were reported to have been “convinced that Armageddon is not only inevitable but also close at hand, and that the final battle between the forces of good and bad, of God and Satan, will take place as a nuclear holocaust.”a
4. What does the word “apocalypse” actually mean, and why is the last book of the Bible fittingly eninputd “A Revelation”?
4 But what really is an apocalypse? Though dictionaries define it by using terms such as “an imminent cosmic cataclysm,” the Greek a·po·kaʹly·psis basically means “unveiling” or “uncovering.” Thus, the last book of the Bible is properly eninputd “A Revelation.” Here we find, not a mere fatalistic message of world doom, but an uncovering of divine truths that should build in our hearts a radiant hope and an immovable faith.
5. (a) Who will be destroyed at Armageddon, and who will survive? (b) What grand future awaits the Armageddon survivors?
5 True, Armageddon is described in the last book of the Bible as “the war of the great day of God the Almighty.” (Revelation 16:14, 16) But it will be far different from a nuclear holocaust! Such a holocaust would likely mean the annihilation of all life on earth. On the contrary, God’s Word gives the happy assurance that only wicked opposers of God will be destroyed—by forces under God’s control. (Psalm 37:9, 10; 145:20) A great crowd of humans, out of all nations, will survive the climax of divine judgment at Armageddon. Christ Jesus will then shepherd and guide these to life everlasting in a paradise earth. Do you not want to be one of them? Happily, Revelation shows that you may be!—Revelation 7:9, 14, 17.
Searching Out Divine Secrets
6. Over the years, what books have been published by Jehovah’s Witnesses to shed light on Revelation?
6 As early as 1917, the Watch Tower Society published the book The Finished Mystery. This was a verse-by-verse commentary on the Bible books of Ezekiel and Revelation. Then, as world events continued to unfold in fulfillment of Bible prophecy, a timely two-volume work eninputd Light was prepared, being released in 1930. This offered an updated study of Revelation. Light continued to ‘flash up for the righteous,’ so that in 1963, Jehovah’s Witnesses published the 704-page book “Babylon the Great Has Fallen!” God’s Kingdom Rules! This gave in great detail the history of the rise and fall of Babylon the Great, the world empire of false religion, and it was climaxed with a discussion of the final nine chapters of Revelation. As ‘the path of the righteous ones grew brighter,’ particularly with regard to congregational activity, there followed in 1969 a 384-page volume, “Then Is Finished the Mystery of God,” which discussed the first 13 chapters of Revelation.—Psalm 97:11; Proverbs 4:18.
7. (a) Why have Jehovah’s Witnesses provided this book on Revelation? (b) What teaching aids are provided in the book for the benefit of readers?
7 Why was another book on Revelation published and reprinted at this present time? Much of the information that has already appeared is very detailed, and it has not been possible to translate and publish it worldwide in many languages. Hence, it was seen fit to provide a book on Revelation in just one volume and in a form that can readily be produced in a number of languages. Further, the opportunity is taken in this volume to provide teaching aids, including illustrations, charts, and summaries, that should help readers to grasp clearly the thrilling import of this marvelous prophecy.
8. What even stronger reason is there for publishing this book?
8 An even stronger reason for publishing this book is the need to keep up-to-date with present truth. Jehovah is continually shedding greater light on the meaning of his Word, and we can expect that our understanding of Revelation, along with other prophecies, will be sharpened as we draw closer to the great tribulation. (Matthew 24:21; Revelation 7:14) It is important that we be well informed. As the apostle Peter wrote concerning divine prophecy: “You are doing well in paying attention to it as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until day dawns and a daystar rises, in your hearts.”—2 Peter 1:19.
9. (a) Along with other prophecies, what does Revelation show that God will create? (b) What is the new world, and how may you survive into it?
9 Revelation adds its testimony to many other Bible prophecies, showing that Jehovah God purposes to create new heavens and a new earth. (Isaiah 65:17; 66:22; 2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:1-5) Primarily, its message is addressed to anointed Christians, whom Jesus has bought with his blood to become corulers with him in the new heavens. (Revelation 5:9, 10) Nevertheless, this good news will also fortify the faith of those millions who look forward to everlasting life under Christ’s Kingdom. Are you one of these? Then Revelation will strengthen your hope of living in Paradise, as part of the new earth, with the enjoyment of an abundance of peace, vibrant health, and an overflow of God’s provisions that will never end. (Psalm 37:11, 29, 34; 72:1, 7, 8, 16) If you want to survive into that new world, it is urgent, yes, mandatory, that you pay attention to Revelation’s graphic description of the epoch-making climax now at hand.—Zephaniah 2:3; John 13:17.
[Footnote]
a Süddeutsche Zeitung, Munich, Germany, January 24, 1987.
[Full-page picture on page 7] |
For Family Review | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102012013 | For Family Review
What Is Wrong With This Picture?
Read Genesis 24:1-4, 10-23. What three features of this drawing are incorrect? Write your answers on the lines below, and complete the picture by coloring it.
1. ․․․․․
2. ․․․․․
3. ․․․․․
FOR DISCUSSION:
What important qualities did Rebekah display?
CLUE: Read Proverbs 31:17, 27, 29-31; 1 Peter 4:9.
How can you imitate Rebekah?
CLUE: Read Proverbs 11:25; Romans 12:11.
FAMILY ACTIVITY:
Write down the name of one person you would like to help. Next, make a list of what you could do to help that person. Show your paper to your family. Decide together what you will do for that person and when. After you help that person, meet together with your family and discuss how what you did made you feel.
Collect and Learn
Cut out, fold in half, and save
BIBLE CARD 13 JOB
QUESTIONS
A. Job had a total of ․․․․․ sons and ․․․․․ daughters.
B. What did Satan take from Job?
C. Complete Job’s statement: “Until I expire I shall not take away . . .”
[Chart]
4026 B.C.E. Adam created
Lived about 1600 B.C.E.
1 C.E.
98 C.E. Last Bible book written
[Map]
Lived in Uz
PROMISED LAND
EGYPT
UZ?
JOB
PROFILE
A man “blameless and upright” in God’s eyes. (Job 1:8) Though his wife and others pressured him, Job never turned away from serving God. (Job 1:20-22; 2:9, 10) His perseverance and happy outcome give us the courage to endure our trials loyally.—Job 42:12-17; James 5:11.
ANSWERS
A. 14, 6.—Job 1:2; 42:13.
B. His livestock, servants, children, and health.—Job 1:13-19; 2:4-7.
C. “. . . my integrity from myself!”—Job 27:5.
Peoples and Lands
4. My name is Lukas. I am seven years old, and I live in Germany. About how many of Jehovah’s Witnesses live in Germany? Is it 60,000, 100,000, or 160,000?
5. Which dot shows where I live? Circle it, draw a dot where you live, and see how close you are to Germany.
A
B
C
D
Children’s Picture Search
Can you find these pictures in this issue? In your own words, describe what is happening in each picture.
To print out additional copies of “For Family Review,” go to www.jw.org
● “FOR FAMILY REVIEW” answers on page 27
ANSWERS TO PAGES 30 AND 31
1. There should be 10 camels, not 11.
2. Rebekah filled a drinking trough, not three barrels.
3. The servant gave Rebekah a nose ring and two bracelets, not a necklace.
4. 160,000.
5. C. |
Young People Ask, Volume 2 (yp2)
2008 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/yp2 | Role Model—The Poor Widow
Jesus is watching the rich drop contributions into the temple treasury chest. In the crowd he notices a needy widow who donates “two small coins of very little value.” (Luke 21:2) Jesus praises her act of generosity. Why? Because the others had donated “out of their surplus, but she, out of her want, dropped in all of what she had, her whole living.”—Mark 12:44.
Do you have the same priorities as this woman did? Are you willing to spend your time and money in serving God? Like the needy widow, you can donate toward the maintenance of places of worship. You can also spend your time and money helping others learn about Jehovah God. Jehovah noticed and appreciated the small amount the widow gave in his service. God will also appreciate and help you if your top priority is to do his will.—Matthew 6:33. |
Return to Jehovah (rj)
2015 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/brochures-and-booklets/return-to-jehovah-rj | input Page/Publishers’ Page
Return to Jehovah
This publication is not for sale. It is provided as part of a worldwide Bible educational work supported by voluntary donations.
To make a donation, please visit donate.jw.org.
Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are from the modern-language New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures.
June 2021 Printing
English (rj-E)
© 2015
WATCH TOWER BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY OF PENNSYLVANIA |
Life (lp)
1977 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/lp | Chapter 15
The End of Sickness and Death
1. What has fear of death often caused people to do?
OF ALL the things that have brought sorrow and suffering to humankind, sickness and death take the lead. Even the fear of death has kept people in a form of bondage, and threats of death have forced many to commit acts in violation of their consciences—for example, under Nazi rule, when some people were terrorized into betraying their own friends. (Hebrews 2:15) What relief humankind will experience when these enemies, sickness and death, are abolished!—1 Corinthians 15:26.
2, 3. (a) Doing away with death will eliminate what other undesirable things? (b) From what does God’s promise to abolish death liberate us now?
2 Only the Creator can help people out of this sad situation. And not only has he promised to do so, but he has laid the foundation for complete, permanent removal of death under the rule of the “new heavens” of Jesus Christ and his associate kings and priests. God promises humankind that “he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore.” He adds, to give us faith and assurance: “These words are faithful and true.” (Revelation 21:4, 5) With the removal of sickness and death, the debilitating effects of old age, with its wrinkled skin and gray hair, will also disappear.
3 If we know and believe this divine promise, it removes much of the sadness that death brings. We will not “sorrow just as the rest also do who have no hope.”—1 Thessalonians 4:13.
NOT A NEW HOPE
4. Why can we say that the hope that death will be abolished is not a new hope?
4 This hope is not new. Men and women who served God thousands of years ago had this hope that comforted and strengthened them. While they knew that they would die, they also had faith in God that they would be brought back with opportunity for everlasting life. Some of these faithful people were actually eyewitnesses to resurrections that God performed through his prophets and through Jesus and the apostles. Of course, those resurrected ones eventually died again. But God’s servants then were awaiting a “better resurrection” under the Messianic kingdom, when it will not be necessary to die again, except for willful disobedience.—Hebrews 11:16, 35.
5. What evidence do we have that Abraham, Job and Daniel had assurance that, when they died, they would not remain dead forever?
5 Abraham demonstrated faith in the resurrection in an outstanding way. (Hebrews 11:17-19) Faithful, enduring Job spoke of being in Sheol, the grave, and of being remembered by God at His set time. (Job 14:13) And when the prophet Daniel asked for understanding of his long-range prophecy, which was to be fulfilled at “the time of the end,” God’s angel told him: “You will rest, but you will stand up for your lot at the end of the days.”—Daniel 12:8, 9, 13.
WHO WILL RECEIVE AN EARTHLY RESURRECTION?
6. (a) What two general groups of people will receive an earthly resurrection? (b) At their resurrection, what will be the attitude of those who had, before death, been servants of God?
6 Resurrection from death will be only the first step in God’s purpose to rehabilitate those who have died. They will come forth from the grave to be welcomed and received by the “great crowd” of survivors of the “great tribulation,” after the destruction of the present wicked system of things. There will be two groups of persons resurrected to live again on earth: (1) People who have proved faithful to God in the past, among whom are those mentioned in the eleventh chapter of Hebrews, and (2) those who had, before death, never been servants of God. “There is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous,” said the apostle Paul. (Acts 24:15) The first group will have no trouble learning and taking hold of God’s provisions for life through Christ’s sacrifice. They will gladly render obedience to the laws in existence then. Such faithful ones are even now, while still in the grave, counted as “living” by God, because he is sure to resurrect them.—Luke 20:37, 38.
7. What will be done for the resurrected ones who had not served God in the past?
7 Persons who had not previously served God will, after being resurrected, have to learn about Jehovah the true God and his kind provisions through Jesus Christ. The “great crowd” of tribulation survivors will be responsible to teach them. (Romans 10:14) The good news will have to be made clear to these resurrected ones, for God has declared that “in the name of Jesus every knee should bend of those in heaven and those on earth and those under the ground [in the grave], and every tongue should openly acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.”—Philippians 2:10, 11.
8. Will the resurrected ones be judged on the basis of their past deeds, or on what basis?
8 The resurrected ones will be required to be obedient to the laws then in force and will be judged “out of those things written in the scrolls according to their deeds.” (Revelation 20:12) The “scrolls” apparently represent God’s revelation of his will for humankind during that thousand-year period.
PERFECTION NOT IMMEDIATELY REACHED
9. What will be the situation of the “great crowd”?
9 The members of the “great crowd” will not be perfected immediately after the “great tribulation” is over. But they survive the destruction of this system of things because of their faith and obedience, and form the “foundation” of the “new earth.” (Revelation 7:14-17; compare Isaiah 51:16.) So they will undoubtedly go right ahead in a faithful way and will make rapid strides toward perfection as they follow the things written in the “scrolls.”—Psalm 37:30, 31.
10. What will be done about major disabilities that the members of the “great crowd” as well as the resurrected ones have had?
10 What about the members of this “great crowd” who have serious disabilities, such as heart disease, paralysis, blindness, loss of arms or legs, and so forth? It is reasonable to believe that they will receive early healing of these defects. When on earth, Jesus illustrated such healing. He instantly healed withered hands and arms, strengthened paralyzed limbs and restored sight to blind eyes. These body parts did not gradually grow back. (Luke 6:8-10; John 5:5-9) Likewise, the resurrected ones will logically come back with sound bodies. This was also true of all those whom the Scriptures report as being resurrected. (Luke 8:54, 55) Lazarus, for example, was partially decayed, but he came back from the grave with decayed parts renewed. (John 11:39-44) God made the following promise to his people whom he purposed to restore to their land in ancient times: “No resident will say: ‘I am sick.’ The people that are dwelling in the land will be those pardoned for their error.” People will be able to do the normal things of life even though not perfect as yet.—Isaiah 33:24.
HOW PERFECTION COMES ABOUT
11. (a) How will perfection be attained? (b) Why does a spiritual change have to be made before physical healing takes place?
11 However, full perfection of body will evidently come only as the individual, because of his faith in Christ, makes spiritual progress in ‘putting on the new personality.’ Even though a person has been healed of major disabilities, as he practices that which is right he will come nearer and nearer to perfection. He will be regularly partaking of God’s provision for his healing by means of Christ’s atonement sacrifice. (Revelation 22:2) Christ will mercifully remove all that one’s imperfections. This spiritual change will have to be made first, because sin is the cause of death, and a person cannot be perfect in physical body until sin is completely removed from his personality. The Bible always instructions sickness with sin.—Luke 5:18-25; 1 Corinthians 15:56; Romans 6:23.
12. What fight does each servant of God now have in making over his personality, and why?
12 The apostle Paul describes the “fight” carried on now by each one who tries to make over his personality, to become fully pleasing to God. He says: “What I wish, this I do not practice; but what I hate is what I do. . . . The good that I wish I do not do, but the bad that I do not wish is what I practice. . . . The one working it out is no longer I, but the sin dwelling in me.” (Romans 7:15-20) Through inheritance, all humans have been brought forth “with error,” in sin. (Psalm 51:5) Also, all have added to that sin during their own course of life, the environment wrongly influencing them.
13. What can a person do about (a) the bad tendencies he has ‘picked up’ from his environment? (b) his inherited tendencies that are bad?
13 Even today a person can genuinely get rid of the things that he has ‘picked up’ from his environment, with the help of God’s Word, His spirit and his own association with God’s servants. But it is different with the things that come through his genetic makeup, that are a part of him, physically and mentally. True, he can fight these faults with considerable success, for the apostles tell us that we can ‘make our minds over,’ “put on the new personality,” ‘produce the fruits of the spirit,’ “hold a good conscience” and ‘maintain fine conduct.’ (Romans 12:2; Ephesians 4:24; Galatians 5:22, 23; 1 Peter 3:16; 2:12) But we cannot completely wipe out these bad inherited tendencies merely through such effort. The apostle said of his situation: “Miserable man that I am! Who will rescue me from the body undergoing this death? Thanks to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So, then, with my mind I myself am a slave to God’s law, but with my flesh to sin’s law.”—Romans 7:24, 25.
14. (a) When a Christian’s inherited weaknesses cause him to sin, what can he do to remain in God’s favor? (b) How will one be finally delivered from all inherited weaknesses, which cause sin and distress?
14 In this present time, the Christian can receive forgiveness for his sins through faith in Jesus Christ and the sacrifice of his life for our errors. And he must follow up his prayers requesting forgiveness by doing his best to align himself with the right course. He can never let up in the fight against wrong inclinations, and with the help of God’s spirit it need not be a losing battle. His conscience can be clean. (Romans 8:2, 11-13; Hebrews 9:14) But in the new system of things Christ will administer the full benefit of His sacrifice so that the inherited weaknesses, the genetic “misinformation” received from a person’s ancestors, will be corrected. He will be healed in every respect. What a relief! What a deliverance when a person will be able to do exactly the good it is in his heart to do, all the time! Thanks, indeed, to God through Jesus Christ.
15. (a) When will it no longer be a fight for a person to do the right thing at all times? (b) How does the apostle Paul highlight this point at 1 Timothy 1:8, 9? (c) How was Jesus an example of the fact that a righteous man does not need a code of laws forbidding murder, theft, and so forth?
15 So, during the thousand-year reign of Christ, an individual can gradually become less and less burdened with sinful tendencies. He will more and more do the right thing. Then, when perfection is reached, it will no longer be a fight to do the right thing. It will be natural to do right. A person will not be in the least inclined to steal, to commit immorality, to hate or slander others. The apostle Paul said about the Mosaic law, which legislated against these things: “Now we know that the Law is fine provided one handles it lawfully in the knowledge of this fact, that law is promulgated, not for a righteous man, but for persons lawless and unruly, ungodly and sinners.” (1 Timothy 1:8, 9) A perfect person needs no law to warn him not to do these wicked things. When Jesus was on earth, it was the natural thing for him to do what is right. He ‘loved righteousness and hated lawlessness.’ (Hebrews 1:9) He had an immediate, heart-motivated reaction to do good and to reject bad. Consider the account of his temptation by Satan and also Peter’s mistaken effort to get Jesus to avoid that which God had set before Jesus to do.—Matthew 4:1-11; 16:21-23.
RECEIVING RESURRECTED ONES
16. (a) Will resurrected persons be identifiable to themselves and their friends? (b) What is God’s purpose in bringing a person back to earth by a resurrection? (c) Though a resurrected person will not be judged by his past deeds, will such past performance have any effect on his life after resurrection?
16 As to the resurrected ones, God will accurately “re-create” each individual with his entire life pattern, personality and memory just as it was. The one resurrected will be able to identify himself as the same person. Also, his former associates will know him by his appearance and characteristics. He can then resume life after the interruption caused by his death, possessing the same motivations, leanings and traits that he displayed beforehand. However, his past sins and mistakes will not be brought up as charges against him. Why not? Because God’s purpose in bringing him back to earth is to provide opportunity for him to take advantage of Christ’s sacrifice and be freed of sin. Yet, what the individual did in the past, if bad, would have its effect on his personality, and the resulting bad traits would have to be overcome. The more unrighteous his past course was, the more he will have to change. Some may not take advantage of the opportunity to change.—Isaiah 26:10.
17. If a person died centuries ago, will it seem to him that a long time has passed between his death and his resurrection?
17 To the person who is resurrected, the time period that he was dead would be, to him, only an instant, since death is a nonexistence. It is likened in the Bible to a deep sleep. (John 11:11-14; 1 Thessalonians 4:13, 14; Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10) Thousands of years, or a day, would seem like only a moment of time. To the one resurrected, the experience would be like walking through a doorway out of the present wicked system of things into the righteous, orderly new system of things.
18. (a) What will the resurrected ones have to learn? (b) Logically, how will those who are resurrected not be brought back to a totally unfamiliar world, with a ‘communication gap’?
18 Of course, the person who died many years ago will be surprised to find circumstances on earth so different. He will have to be informed by the members of the “great crowd” of the works that God has performed in the meantime, particularly in giving His Son as the atonement sacrifice. He will also learn how the good conditions are a result of Christ’s Kingdom rule. It would be in harmony with God’s loving-kindness to assume that family members and friends will be able to receive back their dead loved ones, just as was the case with resurrections reported in the Bible. (Luke 7:12-15; 8:49-56; Hebrews 11:35) Then, after a period of training, the resurrected ones will, in turn, be able to receive and help their yet dead loved ones who are subsequently brought back. Thus no one will be resurrected to a totally unfamiliar world, but, rather, to warm companionship, with no ‘communication gap.’ This process will continue until all the ransomed dead are finally resurrected. What a joyous time that will be!
GOD BECOMES “ALL THINGS TO EVERYONE”
19. Though perfection comes by Christ’s thousand-year rule, when will those on earth be granted everlasting life?
19 At the end of the thousand years, the last trace of sin and its consequence, death, will have been destroyed. (1 Corinthians 15:26) But does this reaching of perfection by all then on earth mean that such persons cannot sin? No, for the Bible reveals that persons reaching that state will not be assured of everlasting life until they prove faithful against a final attack by Satan the Devil. When Christ’s kingdom and priesthood accomplish the restoration to perfection, Christ turns the Kingdom back to God, and man again stands in relation to God as Adam did. The situation is restored as it was at the beginning and each man’s final, everlasting destiny is for God alone to determine. God permits this attack by Satan and his demon hosts.
20. What test will come upon the perfect inhabitants of the earth at the end of the thousand years?
20 Revelation 20:7-10 describes what occurs as a test on earth’s inhabitants: “Now as soon as the thousand years have been ended, Satan will be let loose out of his prison [the abyss, where he had been placed just before the thousand years began], and he will go out to mislead those nations in the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together for the war. The number of these is as the sand of the sea [an unstated, hence humanly undeterminable number]. And they advanced over the breadth of the earth and encircled the camp of the holy ones and the beloved city. But fire came down out of heaven and devoured them. And the Devil who was misleading them was hurled into the lake of fire and sulphur, where both the wild beast and the false prophet already were; and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.”—Compare Revelation 20:1-3.
21. (a) What issue will again be raised? (b) What will be the outcome?
21 This prophecy shows that some of the people then on earth will group themselves to attack the faithful ones on earth. They will be induced to do so by Satan and his demons. Why would perfect persons do this? Just as Adam and Eve did, they step out for independence from God. They are convinced that here is the opportunity to do this. Satan thus makes a ‘last stand’ to win his fight over the great issue that he originally raised, namely, the issue of the rightness of God’s rulership. He fails, for the faithful ones, who doubtless constitute the great majority of mankind, remain firm. Then Satan and those following him are hurled into the “lake of fire.” This is the “second death,” where, to all eternity, they are held in ‘torment’ (jailers were in olden times called “tormentors” [Matthew 18:34, Authorized Version]). They are ‘locked up’ in nonexistence forever.
22. (a) How can God safely guarantee everlasting life on earth to those who remain faithful under the final test? (b) What example do we have that God can know a person so thoroughly that he can be sure the person will never sin?
22 Those who faithfully stood firm for God’s rulership or sovereignty will then be granted everlasting life. They will “come to life,” that is, real assured life. (Revelation 20:4-6) Thus God becomes “all things to everyone.” (1 Corinthians 15:28) But how can God safely guarantee that these will live forever? Because he thoroughly knows who those are who love him and who would never turn away from him. We have an example of this ability of God in the case of Jesus Christ, whom God knew so thoroughly and completely that he could foretell that Christ would be faithful through every test. God even had his prophets write in advance many of the very details of things that Christ would do in obedience to God under severe hardships.—Isaiah 53:7, 11; Psalms 40:7-10; 45:7.
GOD’S PURPOSE TOWARD EARTH FULFILLED
23. How will there be enjoyment of life, with full opportunity for exercise of talents and abilities for the welfare of all on earth?
23 So, although it has taken time, God’s purpose toward the earth will be gloriously fulfilled. Earth will be a grand paradise, filled with humans praising God and showing love to one another. But will the earth then become too crowded? No. We can be sure that God knows the number of persons that can comfortably live on earth. So he can reserve plenty of space for mountains and seas as well as room for the habitation of wildlife, for beauty and recreation. He will adjust matters so that there will be no feeling of crowding as is the case in large cities today. Life will be enjoyable, with all persons in harmony. Yet, since they will vary in personality and in gifts or talents and skills, there will be endless vistas of interest and delight to be enjoyed in their company. The many fields of activity will provide absorbing study, research and enterprise, with a real, lasting purpose. Each individual will be able to contribute his talents and abilities for the common welfare, and will have the energy and time to do so.—Compare Isaiah 40:29-31 and the principle expressed at Ecclesiastes 5:18-20.
24. (a) What will then be man’s relationship to the animals? (b) Will serious accidents occur?
24 When God created man and woman, he told them to subdue the earth and to exercise dominion over the animal creation. (Genesis 1:28) The earth was made as a gift to man—his home. (Psalm 115:16) Man will therefore know how to take care of the earth, exercising proper, loving control over the animals. The animals will be man’s friends and will instinctively respect his dominion. God demonstrated this when he restored ancient Israel from exile in Babylon. (Hosea 2:18) In full possession of his faculties, with alertness of all his senses, a man will have no serious accidents. Look at the animals in their natural habitat. The bat, with his “sonar” equipment, flies in the dark, unerringly avoiding objects even as fine as a piano wire. A bird comes in to a perfect landing on a limb or twig. They are equipped fully for the life they live, and they enjoy living. With stronger reasoning we can be assured that man, being superior to the animals, will be perfectly at home in his environment.
25. Why will life then never become boring or monotonous?
25 Work will then be joyful. Man will not have to eat bread ‘in the sweat of his face,’ as Adam was told after he had sinned. (Genesis 3:19) Work and the exercise of all their faculties will keep humans occupied in worthwhile, purposeful pursuits. As foreshadowed in ancient Israel when they obeyed the Law, there will be ample allowance of time for association with one’s nearest and most intimate ones, as well as for becoming acquainted with new friends. So in all the earth, one will have friends who will always remain friends. All of this will come from making friends with those who love humankind most, Jehovah God and his Son Jesus Christ.—John 15:14.
[Picture on page 169]
When Jesus Christ was on earth, he actually brought dead persons back to life |
JESÚS MARTÍN | LIFE STORY
“Jehovah Rescued Me in My Darkest Hour” | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502400106 | JESÚS MARTÍN | LIFE STORY
“Jehovah Rescued Me in My Darkest Hour”
I was born in Madrid in 1936. To Spaniards of my generation, that was a year no one could forget. It was the year when a brutal civil war broke out in Spain.
That civil war ravaged Spain for nearly three years, and it left many people physically and emotionally scarred. My father was no exception. He had always professed a sincere belief in God, but he became embittered when he saw that Catholic priests were deeply involved in the war. So he decided that my brother and I would not receive a Catholic baptism.
Francisco Franco had a strong alliance with the Catholic Church
In 1950, two of Jehovah’s Witnesses knocked on our door. My father listened to them and agreed to a weekly Bible study. I was just 14 years old at the time, and soccer was my passion. Dad tried to get me to read some of the publications the Witnesses left him, but I didn’t want to get involved. Returning home one afternoon after a soccer match, I asked my mother, “Mom, are those Bible teachers here again?” “Yes, they are in the dining room with your Dad,” she replied. I quickly ran back out into the street!
To his credit, my father never allowed my distaste for Bible teachings to discourage him. In fact, he loved the truths he was learning so much that in 1953 he got baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. This event aroused my curiosity, and I began to ask my father many questions. I even requested a personal copy of the Bible. He arranged for Máximo Murcia, a young Witness, to conduct a Bible study with me. Two years later, at the age of 19, I got baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Jarama River, just east of Madrid.
Preaching During the Franco Dictatorship
During the 1950’s, it was a challenge to preach and meet together. Dictator Francisco Franco was ruling Spain, and he wanted to keep the country exclusively Catholic. As a result, the police often hounded Jehovah’s Witnesses. We gathered in private homes and took special care not to arouse the suspicion of neighbors who might report us to the police. We also shared in the door-to-door preaching work as discreetly as possible, choosing two or three houses at random and quickly moving on to another neighborhood. Many people listened to our message, but not everyone listened favorably.
Brother F. W. Franz spoke at one of our clandestine conventions
I remember meeting a Catholic priest at one door. When I explained the purpose of our visit, he asked: “On whose authority are you doing this? Do you know that I can report you to the police?” I explained that we were prepared for such a possibility. “Jesus Christ’s enemies tried to have him arrested,” I added. “Would it not be reasonable that his followers should suffer a similar fate?” Not at all happy with my reply, the priest went inside to phone the police. Needless to say, I left the building as quickly as possible.
Despite such negative experiences, the few hundred publishers in Spain found that the country was ripe for spiritual harvesting. In February 1956, when I was still 19, I was appointed to serve as a special pioneer.a Most of us pioneers were young and inexperienced, but thanks to a handful of missionaries, we received the training and encouragement we needed. Along with another young pioneer, I was assigned to serve in the city of Alicante, where the preaching work had not yet begun. Within a few months, we started many Bible studies and distributed hundreds of pieces of literature.
Naturally, our activity did not go unnoticed. After we had spent just a few months in Alicante, the police arrested us and confiscated our Bibles. They kept us in jail for 33 days, after which we were taken to Madrid, where we were released. That brief imprisonment was just a taste of things to come.
Facing My Darkest Hour
At the age of 21, I received my military conscription orders. I had to present myself at an army barracks in Nador—a city that at the time was part of the Spanish protectorate in northern Morocco. There, in front of the chief lieutenant, I respectfully made my position clear. I would not serve in the military, nor would I wear their uniform. The military police escorted me to the Rostrogordo prison, in Melilla, to await a court-martial.
The Rostrogordo prison, in Melilla
Before my trial, the Spanish military commander in Morocco decided that the army would try to knock some sense into me. As a result, I was insulted, horsewhipped for 20 minutes, and kicked until I fell to the ground barely conscious. Still not satisfied, the captain in charge trod on my head with his army boot and only stopped when blood began to flow. I was then taken to his office, where he shouted: “Don’t think that I’m finished with you. Be ready for this and more every day!” He ordered the guards to lock me up in an underground cell. The cell was damp and dark, and my prospects seemed even darker.
I still recall that moment when I lay on the floor of my prison cell, with my head still stained with blood. I had nothing but a thin blanket to cover me and the company of a few rats that appeared every now and then. All I could do was pray to Jehovah for strength and endurance. In that dark, cold dungeon, I prayed again and again.b
The following day, I received a second beating—this time at the hands of a corporal. The captain looked on to make sure that it was done to his satisfaction. I must admit that at this point I began to wonder whether I could stand this treatment much longer. On that second night in my cell, I begged Jehovah to help me.
On the third day, I was summoned again to the captain’s office. I feared the worst. As I walked to the office, I prayed to Jehovah. Don Esteban,c the secretary of the military tribunal, was waiting for me. He had come to initiate the court-martial proceedings.
When Don Esteban saw the bandages on my head, he asked me what had happened. I was hesitant to say anything for fear of reprisals, but I told him the truth. On hearing the details, Don Esteban said: “I cannot prevent you from being court-martialed. You can be certain, however, that nobody will ever beat you again.”
Sure enough, during the rest of my prison term, nobody ever laid a finger on me. I never found out why the judge chose that particular day to speak to me. What I do know is that my prayers were answered in an extraordinary way. I saw how Jehovah rescued me in my darkest hour and did not allow me to be persecuted beyond what I could bear. (1 Corinthians 10:13) I faced my court-martial with full trust in Jehovah.
At Ocaña prison
The court-martial resulted in a 19-year prison sentence, to which three years were later added for “disobedience.” After about 15 months in Morocco, I was transferred to the Ocaña Penitentiary, not far from Madrid, to serve out the rest of my prison term. My transfer to Ocaña was a blessing from Jehovah. It seemed like a paradise compared to Rostrogordo. My cell had a bed, a mattress, and some sheets. And after a time, I was assigned to be the prison bookkeeper. But a long prison confinement brings times of loneliness. One of my biggest tests was not being able to enjoy the companionship of my spiritual brothers.
My parents visited me occasionally, but I really needed more encouragement. My parents told me that other brothers had also taken their stand for Christian neutrality. So I prayed to Jehovah, asking him to assign at least one brother to my prison. And once more, Jehovah answered my fervent prayers—more generously than I expected. Soon, three outstanding brothers—Alberto Contijoch, Francisco Díaz, and Antonio Sánchez—joined me in the Ocaña prison. After four years of isolation, I finally had spiritual companionship. The four of us could study together and preach to our fellow prisoners.
Free and Back to Work
Finally, in 1964, I was released on parole. My 22-year sentence had been reduced to just 6 1/2 years. The very day I was released from prison, I enjoyed my first meeting. Although it meant spending my meager savings on taxi fare to get back to Madrid, I arrived at the meeting just in time. What a blessing to be with the brothers again! But I wasn’t only interested in associating with the brothers. I wanted to get back to pioneering right away. Despite some police harassment, people were responding to the good news, and there was much work to be done.
During this period, I met Mercedes—a zealous young sister who was serving as a special pioneer. Mercedes was a humble sister who was eager to preach to everyone she could. She was also very kind and generous, qualities that endeared her to me. We fell in love, and one year later we were married. Having Mercedes by my side proved to be a real blessing.
With Mercedes shortly after our wedding
Some months after our wedding, we were invited to serve in the traveling work. Visiting a different congregation each week, we joined our brothers in their meetings and the preaching work. Congregations were springing up all over Spain, and the brothers needed help and encouragement. For a short while, I also had the privilege of commuting to the clandestine office of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Barcelona to help with the work there.
Our undercover activity came to an end in 1967 when the government passed a law granting religious freedom to all Spanish citizens. Finally, in 1970, Jehovah’s Witnesses were granted legal recognition. At last, we could meet freely, have our own Kingdom Halls, and even officially open a branch office.
New Theocratic Assignments
In 1971, Mercedes and I were invited to serve as permanent members at the new branch office in Barcelona. But a year later, Mercedes became pregnant and gave birth to Abigail, our beautiful daughter. This meant discontinuing our Bethel service and taking on another assignment, that of bringing up our daughter.
When Abigail was in her teens, the branch office asked us if we could return to the traveling work. Naturally, we prayed about the matter and consulted mature brothers. One elder said: “Jesús, if they need you back in the field, you have to say yes.” So we began another rewarding period in our lives. At first, we visited congregations in the area near our home so that we could continue caring for Abigail. Of course, in time she grew up and began a life on her own, affording us the opportunity to expand our work in the special full-time service.
Mercedes and I served for 23 years in the traveling work. I thoroughly enjoyed this privilege, which gave me the opportunity to use my own experiences to encourage younger ones. Some of the time when I served as an instructor for elders and full-time ministers, we were housed at the Madrid Bethel. Interestingly, some three kilometers (2 mi) away from Bethel flows the Jarama River—the very river where I was baptized back in 1955. Never could I have imagined back then that I would return decades later to this same area to help prepare young men and women for greater responsibilities in Jehovah’s service.
Conducting a class at a theocratic school
Since the year 2013, we have again been serving as special pioneers. I must admit that it was not easy to make the adjustment from the traveling work to pioneering, but this proved to be a wise course. Recently, I have faced health problems, including complicated heart surgery. At these moments, I have also had to rely on Jehovah’s support, and as always, he has never forsaken me. And for 56 years, I have also had the loyal support of my wife, Mercedes, who has been a true partner to me in all my theocratic assignments.
I often recall the time I enjoyed as an instructor. I can still picture the young, eager faces of the students. Their eagerness would bring back memories of my own youth and the enthusiasm I felt when starting out in a lifetime of sacred service. True, I had to persevere through some dark times, but I have also had many wonderful experiences. Even the difficult trials taught me important lessons—above all, that I should never trust in my own strength. My trials gave me the opportunity to see Jehovah’s powerful hand—a hand that has always strengthened me—even during my darkest hour.—Philippians 4:13.
Mercedes and I continue serving as full-time ministers
a A special pioneer is a full-time minister who volunteers to be sent to a location where the branch office of Jehovah’s Witnesses determines that there is a need for Bible teachers.
b That bare cell, which measured only four square meters (43 sq ft) and had no toilet, was my home for seven months. I slept on the dirt floor with my one blanket.
c “Don” is a courtesy input of respect in Spanish-speaking countries, used before a person’s first name. |
Is the Shroud of Turin the Burial Cloth of Jesus? | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502018135 | Is the Shroud of Turin the Burial Cloth of Jesus?
The Bible’s answer
The Shroud of Turin is not mentioned in the Bible. It is a linen sheet thought by many to be the burial cloth of Jesus Christ. As a result of this belief, the shroud is considered by some to be one of Christendom’s most sacred relics. A cathedral in Turin, Italy, now houses the shroud in a high-tech protective casing.
Do Bible accounts support the idea that the Shroud of Turin is genuine? No.
Consider three aspects of the shroud that differ from what the Bible says.
The shroud is a single cloth measuring 442 by 113 centimeters (14 ft 6 in. by 3 ft 8 in.) plus an 8-centimeter (3 in.) strip sewed lengthwise.
What the Bible says: Jesus’ dead body was wrapped, not in one piece of linen, but in multiple strips of cloth. His head was wrapped in a separate cloth. After Jesus was resurrected, one of his apostles came to the empty tomb and “saw the linen cloths lying there.” The Bible adds: “The cloth that had been on his head was not lying with the other cloth bands but was rolled up in a place by itself.”—John 20:6, 7.
The shroud contains markings presumed to be bloodstains from an unwashed corpse.
What the Bible says: When Jesus died, his disciples prepared his body “according to the burial custom of the Jews.” (John 19:39-42) This custom included washing the corpse and applying oils and spices to it before burial. (Matthew 26:12; Acts 9:37) Therefore, Jesus’ disciples would have washed his body before wrapping it in cloths.
The shroud bears the image of a man “laid lengthwise along one half of the shroud while the other half had been doubled over the head to cover the whole front of the body,” according to the Encyclopædia Britannica.
What the Bible says: Jesus’ disciples discussed his death, his empty tomb, and the eyewitness testimony of women who saw “a supernatural sight of angels, who said he is alive.” (Luke 24:15-24) If the shroud had been in Jesus’ tomb, his disciples would no doubt have discussed it and the images on it. However, the Bible says nothing about such a discussion.
Should the shroud be venerated?
No. Even if it were authentic, venerating it would still be wrong. Consider Bible principles that explain why.
It is unnecessary. Jesus explained: “God is a Spirit, and those worshipping him must worship with spirit and truth.” (John 4:24) True worship does not involve the use of religious relics or icons.
It is forbidden. The Ten Commandments forbid idolatry. (Deuteronomy 5:6-10) Likewise, the Bible commands Christians: “Guard yourselves from idols.” (1 John 5:21) Some might argue that for them the shroud is not an idol but an icon, or symbol, of their religious faith. However, an icon becomes an idol to the person who venerates it.a Therefore, a person who wants to please God will not show devotion or reverence to any object, including the shroud.
Scientific analysis of the shroud
Since the late 19th century, researchers have tried to use scientific methods to test the authenticity of the shroud. Some of these tests have proven inconclusive. However, in 1988, the Vatican submitted small samples taken from the shroud to three laboratories in different countries. After the laboratories subjected the samples to radiocarbon dating, each one concluded that the shroud was from the 13th or 14th century.
a An idol is an image, a representation, or a symbol that is an object of devotion. |
What Are the Ten Commandments of God? | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502018139 | What Are the Ten Commandments of God?
The Bible’s answer
The Ten Commandments are laws that God gave to the ancient nation of Israel. These laws are also known as the Ten Words, which is a literal translation of the Hebrew expression ʽaseʹreth had·deva·rimʹ. This expression occurs three times in the Pentateuch (Torah), the first five books of the Bible. (Exodus 34:28; Deuteronomy 4:13; 10:4) The equivalent expression in Greek, deʹka (ten) loʹgous (words), gave rise to the term “Decalogue.”
God inscribed the Ten Commandments on two stone tablets and gave them to his prophet Moses on Mount Sinai. (Exodus 24:12-18) The Ten Commandments are listed at Exodus 20:1-17 and Deuteronomy 5:6-21.
List of the Ten Commandments
Why do lists of the Ten Commandments differ?
What was the purpose of the Ten Commandments?
Must Christians keep the Ten Commandments?
Are the Ten Commandments relevant today?
Principles from the Ten Commandments reflected in the New Testament
List of the Ten Commandments
Worship only Jehovah God.—Exodus 20:3.
Do not practice idolatry.—Exodus 20:4-6.
Do not take up God’s name in a worthless way.—Exodus 20:7.
Keep the Sabbath.—Exodus 20:8-11.
Honor your parents.—Exodus 20:12.
Do not murder.—Exodus 20:13.
Do not commit adultery.—Exodus 20:14.
Do not steal.—Exodus 20:15.
Do not testify falsely.—Exodus 20:16.
Do not covet.—Exodus 20:17.
Why do lists of the Ten Commandments differ?
The Bible does not assign a number to each commandment. Consequently, opinions differ on how the commandments should be arranged. The list above is a common arrangement of these laws. However, some list the Ten Commandments differently. The differences in grouping involve the first, second, and last commandments.a
What was the purpose of the Ten Commandments?
The Ten Commandments were part of the Mosaic Law. That Law code included over 600 commandments and formed the terms of an agreement, or covenant, between God and the ancient nation of Israel. (Exodus 34:27) God promised the people of Israel that they would prosper if they obeyed the Mosaic Law. (Deuteronomy 28:1-14) However, the main purpose of the Law was to prepare the Israelites for the promised Messiah, or Christ.—Galatians 3:24.
Must Christians keep the Ten Commandments?
No. God gave his Law, including the Ten Commandments, specifically to the ancient nation of Israel. (Deuteronomy 5:2, 3; Psalm 147:19, 20) The Mosaic Law is not binding on Christians, and even Jewish Christians were “released from the Law.” (Romans 7:6)b The Mosaic Law was replaced by “the law of the Christ,” which includes all that Jesus instructed his followers to do.—Galatians 6:2; Matthew 28:19, 20.
Are the Ten Commandments relevant today?
Yes. Because the Ten Commandments reveal God’s thinking, we can benefit from studying them. (2 Timothy 3:16, 17) The Ten Commandments are based on reliable principles that will never go out-of-date. (Psalm 111:7, 8) In fact, many of these principles underlie the teachings of what is commonly called the New Testament.—See “Principles from the Ten Commandments reflected in the New Testament.”
Jesus taught that the entire Mosaic Law, including the Ten Commandments, rested on two fundamental commandments. He said: “‘You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind.’ This is the greatest and first commandment. The second, like it, is this: ‘You must love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments the whole Law hangs.” (Matthew 22:34-40) So although Christians are not expected to observe the Mosaic Law, they are commanded to love God and their fellow humans.—John 13:34; 1 John 4:20, 21.
Principles from the Ten Commandments reflected in the New Testament
Principle
New Testament Reference
Worship only Jehovah God
Revelation 22:8, 9
Do not practice idolatry
1 Corinthians 10:14
Honor God’s name
Matthew 6:9
Worship God regularly
Hebrews 10:24, 25
Honor your parents
Ephesians 6:1, 2
Do not murder
1 John 3:15
Do not commit adultery
Hebrews 13:4
Do not steal
Ephesians 4:28
Do not testify falsely
Ephesians 4:25
Do not covet
Luke 12:15
a The traditional Jewish arrangement “makes Ex[odus] xx. 2 the first ‘word,’ and verses 3-6 are regarded as one; viz., the second.” (The Jewish Encyclopedia) On the other hand, Catholics consider Exodus chapter 20, verses 1-6, to be a single commandment. Thus, the decree against dishonoring God’s name becomes the second commandment. To retain the number of commandments, they divide the final decree against coveting a neighbor’s wife and possessions into two separate laws.
b Romans 7:7 uses the tenth commandment as an example of “the Law,” thus proving that the Mosaic Law included the Ten Commandments. |
Light of Another Sort | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101991013 | Light of Another Sort
Before dawn the Scandinavian sky is alive with luminous bands and streamers of light. This is the legendary aurora borealis, or northern lights. The people of Sweden thrill to witness this nighttime phenomenon.
Light of another sort, however, has captured the attention of many in this northern land—the light of Bible truth. From the citizens of Stockholm on the icy Baltic Sea to the Lapps in the distant north, Jehovah’s Witnesses in Sweden share the good news of God’s Kingdom by Christ Jesus with all who will listen.
The 1991 Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses features the activity of the Witnesses not only in Sweden but also in Hawaii and Thailand. In addition it provides an up-to-date picture of the work that Jehovah’s Witnesses are doing worldwide. If you would like to receive this 256-page book, please fill in and mail the accompanying coupon.
I would like to receive the 1991 Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses. (Outside the U.S.A., write to local Watch Tower branch for information. See page 5.)
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Watching the World | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101971016 | Watching the World
Disaster in Pakistan
◆ The devastating cyclone and tidal wave that hit East Pakistan in November are being called the twentieth century’s worst “natural” disaster. Estimates of the number dead run from 175,000 to half a million or more. However, the extent of the disaster is reflected, not only in the number of dead, but also in the pitiful conditions faced by the survivors.
Living Cell Created?
◆ Newspaper headlines late in 1970 declared: ‘Biologists Report Synthesis of Living Cell.’ This gave some the impression that scientists had created a living cell. But nothing of the kind had taken place. What Buffalo, New York, scientists had done was to dismember one-celled amoebas and then put them back together using parts of other amoebas. When different strains of amoebas were used, most died out.
Peking Wins Majority
◆ For the first time since balloting began in 1950, Communist China won a majority of votes in the annual attempt to seat her in the United Nations. The vote was 51 to 49, with 25 nations abstaining. However, since a two-thirds majority is required, Peking fell short by 16 votes. But the trend is unmistakable, and some predict U.N. membership for Communist China within a few years.
Communist Leader at Vatican
◆ Soviet Foreign Minister Andrei Gromyko had what was described as “an unusually long audience with Pope Paul” at the Vatican. Some observers took Gromyko’s visit as another sign of the Vatican’s attempts to improve relations with the communists. Communist Yugoslavia and the Vatican had renewed diplomatic relations in August.
Churches Bless Marxist
◆ After the new Marxist president, Dr. Salvador Allende Gossens, had taken the oath of office before Chile’s Congress, all of the traditional religions in the country gathered together in the Santiago cathedral to give thanks to God. In the presence of many Communist delegations, among the seventy-five nations represented, Cardinal Raúl Silva Henriquez applied the prophecies of Isaiah 57:14, 15; 58:6 and Isa 61:1 to the new Marxist government. He declared that “the kingdom we are awaiting for begins to be built here.” Five prayers imploring God’s blessing on the new government were read by a Catholic monsignor, a Lutheran pastor, Episcopal, Methodist and Pentecostal bishops.
‘Churches Reject Christ’
◆ Lay theologian William Stringfellow stated that “the apostasy of the contemporary American churches is so like the original rejection of Christ . . . by the Jews.” He added: “It is the awful, if appropriate, fate of white churches to be so burdened by inherited, cumulative, corporate guilt—for genocide, slavery, war, waste, greed—that they become incapacitated to confront, confess and be freed from the guilt.”
Religious Recession Deepens
◆ Religious commentator Louis Cassels wrote: “‘We’re having the worst [religious] recession in 25 years, and I don’t see any recovery in sight,’ said a prominent church leader. He happened to be an Episcopalian, but the same statement could be made about many other major denominations. The religious recession has been developing for several years. It is reflected in virtually every available index of public interest in religion.”
“Growing Phenomenally”
◆ Baptist church historian H. L. McManus of Georgia acknowledged the decline of the major religions, but then said: “Some fringe groups eventually become big denominations, which is what very likely will happen to the Jehovah’s witnesses, now becoming one of the great Protestant denominations. It’s growing phenomenally.” Of course, Jehovah’s witnesses are not a “Protestant” denomination, but his description of their growth is accurate. In 1970, while most churches showed declines in priests and ministers, Jehovah’s witnesses increased more than 10 percent world wide, reaching a peak of over 1,480,000 active ministers in 206 lands.
A Cold Preventive
◆ Dr. Linus Pauling of Stanford University declared that the common cold can be successfully prevented or treated by large doses of vitamin C, ascorbic acid. He stated that where experiments did not show good results, the amount used had been too small. He suggested that for financial reasons many drug manufacturers and medical journals have tried to hide evidence that vitamin C is beneficial in preventing and treating colds. Dr. Pauling recommended one or two grams a day for cold prevention, and when a cold occurs, four grams a day until the symptoms disappear.
World Population
◆ As of July 1, 1970, the world’s population was an estimated 3,550,000,000 persons. That represented an increase of 72 million in one year, an average of about 200,000 persons a day.
Health Gains Menaced
◆ Gains in the health of people in ‘developing’ countries are menaced by their huge population rise, said Dr. Abraham Horwitz of Chile. He noted that Latin America’s population growth is among the world’s highest, tending to cancel out any improvement in health because poverty and low living standards soon interfere.
Pope Restates Ban
◆ Pope Paul VI strongly restated the Catholic Church’s ban on all forms of birth control except abstinence. His remarks came during a visit to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization in Rome. Later in the same session the organization’s director general, A. H. Boerma of the Netherlands, warned that the world was threatened “with being overwhelmed by the sheer weight of numbers of its inhabitants.” In a letter to the meeting, Norman E. Borlaug, Nobel Peace Prize winner in agriculture, wrote: “If the world’s population continues to increase at the same rate, we will destroy the species.”
Wall Street Shaken
◆ Wall Street, America’s financial center, has been undergoing its greatest shaking since the depression that began in 1929. Eighty member firms of the New York Stock Exchange have gone out of business since the start of 1969, casualties of the current economic recession.
Skyrocketing Welfare Rolls
◆ The number of persons on welfare in the United States has reached an all-time high of 12.4 million. This was an increase of 2 million, or 20 percent, in just one year. The cost of relief has doubled in the past five years, reaching $12,000,000,000 annually.
Layoffs of Scientists
◆ Cutbacks in the American aerospace program, as well as in defense and research, have brought the demand for scientists and engineers to the lowest level in at least ten years. One employment agency official said: “I’ve been in this business nine years, and I’ve never seen anything like it . . . Companies suddenly find there is no work for men in the $30,000 to $40,000 range, and no one wants them.”
Fastest-growing Larceny
◆ The Federal Bureau of Investigation described shoplifting as the “fastest-growing larceny” in the United States. Cases of shoplifting have tripled since 1959. Retail store owners claim that prices could be cut 15 percent if it were not for these thefts.
Fatherless Society
◆ The head of the Dallas, Texas, Criminal Bar Association, Emmet Colvin, criticized the theory that more courts and stiffer jail sentences could end crime. He stated that a main element in rising crime is that “we’re in a fatherless society today.” He said that fathers are too busy with other things and do not spend enough time with their children to provide sound guidance. Is that true in your household?
Venereal Disease Epidemic
◆ Dr. William L. Fleming of the University of North Carolina stated that venereal disease is now out of control in America. Similarly, Oklahoma’s public health adviser, John Underwood, said that gonorrhea is “out of control.” More than 1.5 million new cases of gonorrhea were expected for 1970. In some areas, syphilis increased 50 percent in one year.
Drug Use Spreading
◆ A New York Chamber of Commerce official reports that drug use by company employees has increased so sharply that it rivals alcoholism as a problem. And younger drug users are being joined by more older persons. Dr. J. M. Lewis of Texas notes that older persons are using drugs as a “social lubricant” or as a “tranquilizer.” He stated: “People are more and more inclined toward chemical solutions to everyday problems.” However, this is not leading to any solutions, because the problems mount and so do the number of drug users.
“Out of Control”
◆ Drug use is not just an American problem. London’s Daily Mail declared: “Illegal drug use is today virtually out of control.” It noted the alarm of a senior police officer who warned: “If all the drug squads of all the police forces in the country [Britain] were to be combined they would still not be able to cope with even London’s addicts.”
Addicted at Birth
◆ A two-day-old baby in a Philadelphia hospital suffered from drug withdrawal symptoms due to its mother’s heroin addiction. Addiction at birth is becoming a medical problem due to the increased use of drugs.
Growing Toll of Wildlife
◆ Audubon magazine reports that whales have now been added to the list of marine animals having high levels of DDT in their bodies. Also, a bald eagle that fell to earth in Minnesota had nearly three times the lethal amount of mercury in its tissues. And of 500 mating pairs of brown pelicans on California’s Anacapa Islands, only one young was produced last summer, due to high pesticide levels that upset their reproductive systems.
Stork Numbers Decline
◆ Denmark reports that its national bird, the stork, has declined in numbers so rapidly that it is nearing extinction. A century ago about 10,000 storks arrived each spring from North Africa. In 1970 only 70 pairs arrived.
Sea Lions Contaminated
◆ Dead sea lions washed ashore on California beaches contained the highest DDT output ever noted in sea life. The pesticide count ran to 3,900 parts per million. High mercury counts were also found in the sea lions.
Propane Gas for Taxis
◆ A London taxicab company is converting its taxis to run on bottled propane gas. They average about 200 miles for a cylinder of gas, which is replenished from large storage tanks. The gas is a by-product of crude oil refining. It is said to emit less chemical waste, has about the same mileage performance as diesel oil and gasoline, and is cheaper.
Too Many Operations?
◆ An editorial in the Medical World News says: “There are twice as many surgeons, in proportion to population, in the U.S. as there are in England and Wales, and proportionately they do twice as many operations.” According to the National Center for Health Statistics, about 14 million surgical operations were done in the United States in 1965, which is 7,400 operations for each 100,000 people, compared with 1,700,000 operations in England and Wales—3,370 per 100,000 people. Did United States’ residents really need twice as many operations as did the British? |
STUDY ARTICLE 4
“The Spirit Itself Bears Witness” | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2020245 | STUDY ARTICLE 4
“The Spirit Itself Bears Witness”
“The spirit itself bears witness with our spirit that we are God’s children.”—ROM. 8:16.
SONG 25 A Special Possession
PREVIEWa
Jehovah poured out his holy spirit in a spectacular way at Pentecost on a group of about 120 Christians (See paragraphs 1-2)
1-2. What spectacular event occurs on the day of Pentecost in 33 C.E.?
IT IS Sunday morning in Jerusalem. The year is 33 C.E., and it is the day of Pentecost. A group of about 120 disciples are gathered together in the upper room of a house. (Acts 1:13-15; 2:1) A few days earlier, Jesus had instructed them to remain in Jerusalem because they were to receive a special gift. (Acts 1:4, 5) What happens next?
2 “Suddenly there [is] a noise from heaven, just like that of a rushing, stiff breeze.” The sound fills the whole house. Then, “tongues as if of fire” appear above the disciples’ heads, and they all become “filled with holy spirit.” (Acts 2:2-4) In this spectacular way, Jehovah pours out his holy spirit on that group. (Acts 1:8) They become the first to be anointed by holy spiritb and given the hope of ruling with Jesus in heaven.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN SOMEONE IS ANOINTED?
3. Why did those at Pentecost have no doubt that they were anointed by holy spirit?
3 If you were one of those disciples gathered in the upper room that day, you would never forget it. Something that looked like a tongue of fire came to rest on your head, and you began to speak in tongues! (Acts 2:5-12) There would be no question in your mind that you were anointed by holy spirit. But do all those who are anointed by holy spirit receive their anointing in some spectacular manner and at the same time in their life? No. How do we know?
4. Did all anointed ones in the first century receive their calling at the same time in their life? Explain.
4 Let us consider the matter of timing. That group of about 120 Christians were not the only ones anointed by holy spirit at Pentecost, 33 C.E. Later that day, about 3,000 others also received the promised holy spirit. Their anointing occurred when they got baptized. (Acts 2:37, 38, 41) But in the years that followed, not all anointed Christians received their anointing at their baptism. The Samaritans received their anointing sometime after their baptism. (Acts 8:14-17) And in what certainly was an exceptional instance, Cornelius and his household were anointed even before they got baptized.—Acts 10:44-48.
5. According to 2 Corinthians 1:21, 22, what happens when someone is anointed by holy spirit?
5 Let us also consider what happens when a person is anointed by holy spirit. Some who are anointed may at first find it hard to accept that Jehovah has chosen them. They may wonder, ‘Why did God choose me?’ Others may not have that reaction. Whatever the case, the apostle Paul explains what happens to all who are anointed: “After you believed, you were sealedc by means of him with the promised holy spirit, which is a token in advance of our inheritance.” (Eph. 1:13, 14; ftn.) So Jehovah uses his holy spirit to make it absolutely clear to these Christians that he has chosen them. In this way, the holy spirit is “a token [a pledge or promise]” given to assure them that in the future they will live forever in heaven and not on earth.—Read 2 Corinthians 1:21, 22.
6. What must an anointed Christian do to receive his heavenly reward?
6 If a Christian is anointed, will he automatically receive his heavenly reward? No. He is sure that he has been chosen to go to heaven. However, he must remember this admonition: “Brothers, be all the more diligent to make your calling and choosing sure for yourselves, for if you keep on doing these things, you will by no means ever fail.” (2 Pet. 1:10) So even though an anointed Christian has been chosen, or called, to go to heaven, he will get his reward only if he remains faithful.—Phil. 3:12-14; Heb. 3:1; Rev. 2:10.
HOW DOES SOMEONE KNOW IF HE IS ANOINTED?
7. How do anointed ones know that they have the heavenly calling?
7 But how does a person know that he or she has the heavenly calling? The answer is clearly seen in Paul’s words to those in Rome who were “called to be holy ones.” He told them: “You did not receive a spirit of slavery causing fear again, but you received a spirit of adoption as sons, by which spirit we cry out: ‘Abba, Father!’ The spirit itself bears witness with our spirit that we are God’s children.” (Rom. 1:7; 8:15, 16) So by means of his holy spirit, God makes it clear to anointed ones that they have this heavenly calling.—1 Thess. 2:12.
8. How does 1 John 2:20, 27 show that anointed Christians do not need confirmation from others about their anointing?
8 Jehovah leaves no doubt whatsoever in the minds and hearts of those who receive his invitation to go to heaven. (Read 1 John 2:20, 27.) Of course, anointed Christians need to be taught by Jehovah through the congregation just like everyone else. But they do not need anyone to confirm that they are anointed. Jehovah has used the most powerful force in the universe, his holy spirit, to make it absolutely clear to them that they are anointed!
THEY ARE “BORN AGAIN”
9. When someone is anointed, what change does that person experience, as described at Ephesians 1:18?
9 Most of God’s servants today may find it difficult to understand what happens to someone when God anoints him. This is normal because they themselves have not been anointed. God created humans to live forever on earth, not in heaven. (Gen. 1:28; Ps. 37:29) But Jehovah has chosen some to live in heaven. So when he anoints them, he changes their hope and way of thinking drastically, so that they look forward to life in heaven.—Read Ephesians 1:18.
10. What does it mean to be “born again”? (See also footnote.)
10 When Christians are anointed by holy spirit, they are “born again,” or “born from above.”d Jesus also indicated that it is impossible to explain exactly to someone who has not been anointed how it feels to be “born again,” or to be “born from the spirit.”—John 3:3-8; ftn.
11. Explain the change in thinking that occurs when someone is anointed.
11 What change in thinking takes place when Christians are anointed? Before Jehovah anointed these Christians, they treasured the hope of living forever on earth. They looked forward with great eagerness to the time when Jehovah would remove all wickedness and make the earth a paradise. Perhaps they imagined themselves welcoming back a family member or a friend who had died. But after they were anointed, they started to think differently. Why is that? They did not become dissatisfied with that earthly hope. They did not change their mind because of emotional stress or turmoil. They did not suddenly feel that they would find living forever on earth to be boring. Instead, Jehovah used his holy spirit to change the way that they think and the hope that they cherish.
12. According to 1 Peter 1:3, 4, how do anointed Christians feel about their hope?
12 Someone who has been anointed may feel unworthy of this precious privilege. But he does not for one minute doubt that Jehovah has chosen him. His heart bursts with joy and appreciation when he thinks of his future prospects.—Read 1 Peter 1:3, 4.
13. How do anointed ones feel about their life here on earth?
13 So does this mean that anointed ones want to die? The apostle Paul answers that question. He compared their human body to a tent and said: “In fact, we who are in this tent groan, being weighed down, because we do not want to put this one off, but we want to put the other on, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life.” (2 Cor. 5:4) These Christians have not lost interest in this life, wanting it to end quickly. On the contrary, they enjoy life and want to use each day to serve Jehovah with their family and friends. Yet, no matter what they are doing, they always remember the glorious hope that they have for the future.—1 Cor. 15:53; 2 Pet. 1:4; 1 John 3:2, 3; Rev. 20:6.
HAS JEHOVAH ANOINTED YOU?
14. What does not prove that a person has been anointed by holy spirit?
14 Perhaps you are wondering if you have been anointed by holy spirit. If so, think about these important questions: Do you have a burning desire to do Jehovah’s will? Do you feel that you are especially zealous in the preaching work? Are you a keen student of God’s Word who loves to learn about “the deep things of God”? (1 Cor. 2:10) Do you feel that Jehovah has given you wonderful results in the preaching work? Do you have a deep inner feeling of responsibility to help others spiritually? Have you seen proof that Jehovah has helped you in many specific ways in your life? If you answer these questions with a resounding yes, does this prove that you now have the heavenly calling? No, it does not. Why not? Because all of God’s servants can feel this way, whether they are anointed or not. And by means of his holy spirit, Jehovah can give the same power to any of his servants, no matter what their hope is. In fact, if you are wondering whether you have been anointed by holy spirit, such doubt in itself would mean that you have not been. Those called by Jehovah do not wonder whether they have been anointed or not! They know!
Jehovah used his holy spirit to give Abraham, Sarah, David, and John the Baptist the power to do amazing things, but he did not use that spirit to give them the hope to live in heaven (See paragraphs 15-16)e
15. How do we know that not all those who have received God’s spirit have been chosen to go to heaven?
15 Throughout the Bible, there are many examples of men of faith who received holy spirit; yet, they did not have the hope of living in heaven. David was guided by holy spirit. (1 Sam. 16:13) Holy spirit helped him to understand the deep things about Jehovah and also directed him to write parts of the Bible. (Mark 12:36) Even so, the apostle Peter said that David “did not ascend to the heavens.” (Acts 2:34) John the Baptist was “filled with holy spirit.” (Luke 1:13-16) Jesus said that there was no man greater than John, but then he said that John would not be included in the heavenly Kingdom. (Matt. 11:10, 11) Jehovah used his holy spirit to give these men the power to do amazing things, but he did not use that spirit to choose them to live in heaven. Does this mean that they were less faithful than those chosen to rule in heaven? No. It simply means that Jehovah will bring them back to life in Paradise on earth.—John 5:28, 29; Acts 24:15.
16. What reward do most of God’s servants look forward to today?
16 The vast majority of God’s servants on earth today do not have the hope of living in heaven. Like Abraham, Sarah, David, John the Baptist, and many other men and women in Bible times, they look forward to living on earth when God’s Kingdom will rule over them.—Heb. 11:10.
17. What questions will we consider in the next article?
17 Because some anointed ones are still among God’s people today, certain questions naturally arise. (Rev. 12:17) For example, how should anointed ones view themselves? If someone in your congregation starts to partake of the emblems at the Memorial, how should you treat that person? And what if the number of those who say that they are anointed keeps on growing? Should you be concerned about it? We will answer these questions in the next article.
a Ever since Pentecost 33 C.E., Jehovah has given some Christians an amazing hope—the hope of ruling with his Son in heaven. How, though, do these Christians know that they have been selected for this wonderful privilege? What happens when someone receives this invitation? This article is based on one that appeared in the January 2016 Watchtower. It will answer those intriguing questions.
b EXPRESSION EXPLAINED: Anointed by holy spirit: Jehovah uses his holy spirit to select a person to rule with Jesus in heaven. By means of his spirit, God gives that person a promise for the future, or “a token in advance.” (Eph. 1:13, 14) These Christians can say that the holy spirit “bears witness,” or makes clear, to them that their reward is in heaven.—Rom. 8:16.
c EXPRESSION EXPLAINED: Seal. This sealing is not made permanent until sometime before the person dies faithful or sometime before the outbreak of the great tribulation.—Eph. 4:30; Rev. 7:2-4; see “Questions From Readers” in the April 2016 Watchtower.
d For further explanation of what it means to be “born again,” see The Watchtower, April 1, 2009, pp. 3-12.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER?
How does someone know that he or she is anointed?
What changes take place when a person is anointed?
How do anointed ones feel about life here on earth?
SONG 27 The Revealing of God’s Sons
e PICTURE DESCRIPTION: Whether we are imprisoned for our faith or we are free to preach and to teach the truth, we can look forward to living on earth when God’s Kingdom will rule over us. |
An Overload of Information | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101998001 | An Overload of Information
THE 20th century has witnessed an unprecedented overload of information. Whether by printed material, radio or television coverage, the Internet, or some other means, the world is saturated with information. David Shenk writes in his book Data Smog—Surviving the Information Glut: “Information overload has emerged as a genuine threat. . . . We now face the prospect of information obesity.”
Consider a well-known newspaper as just one example. It is said that a usual weekday edition of The New York Times contains more information than the average person would have come across in his entire lifetime back in 17th-century England. But in addition to the daily newspaper, magazines and books of every description on a multitude of subjects add to the avalanche of information being produced. Books are published by the tens of thousands each year. And since scientific information doubles every six years, it is not surprising that worldwide, technical journals alone number over 100,000. And the Internet makes vast libraries of information available to computer users.
What of magazines? Business journals, women’s magazines, teen magazines, sports and entertainment magazines—indeed, magazines on almost every subject and human interest—have inundated the world, all screaming for our attention. What about the role of the advertising man—the “trumpeter of nothingness,” as he has been well described? In his book Information Anxiety, author Richard S. Wurman observes: “Advertising agencies have declared war on our senses with a barrage of ads that demand to be looked at, heard, sniffed, and touched.” They insist that you need the latest product, the latest upgrade, in order to “keep up with the Joneses.”
Australian psychologist and social researcher Dr. Hugh MacKay said that ‘the world is being overwhelmed by information and people are being invited to get into the fast lane on the information superhighway.’ The problem, as Dr. MacKay sees it, is that the explosion of news and current affairs programming on radio and television, along with the current dramatic explosion of computer-based information networks, has resulted in a world where many respond to media information that is really often only a partial representation of the facts and events, not the full story.
What Is Information?
The Latin root word informare carries the thought of forming matter, much as a potter forms clay. Hence, some definitions of “inform” give the meaning “to mold the mind” or “to shape or instruct the mind.” Most readers will clearly remember the time, not so long ago, when information was simply a list of facts or data telling us details such as who, where, what, when, or how. There was no special language or vocabulary for information. All we had to do was ask for it or look it up for ourselves.
But along came the 1990’s, and the world has been given so many new information-related words that these alone can cause confusion. While some of these words or expressions are relatively simple and comprehensible, such as “infomania,” “technophilia,” and “information age,” others can cause real problems. Today the world is being swept by infomania—the belief that the one who possesses the most information has an advantage over others less able to access it and that information is, no longer a means to an end, but an end in itself.
This mania is fed by a deluge of telecommunication systems, such as the fax machine, the mobile telephone, and the personal computer, considered by some to be the symbol and mascot of the information age. It is true that the convenience, speed, and power of computers have opened up access to information as never before—so much so that Nicholas Negroponte, of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, says: “Computing is not about computers anymore. It is about living.” As a result, information and the technologies that deliver it have come to be valued excessively, in some cases revered, with a huge cult-following in all parts of the earth. Television news and current affairs programs are given almost gospel status, while oceans of trivia are poured out in TV talk shows and swallowed by an often uncritical and gullible public.
It is because the information age has changed the way we live and work that many people today suffer from “information anxiety” in one form or another. What exactly is information anxiety? How can you tell if you are affected? Is there anything that you can do about it?
[Picture Credit Line on page 3]
Globe on pages 3, 5, and 10: Mountain High Maps® Copyright © 1997 Digital Wisdom, Inc. |
College Education—A Preparation for What? | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101987004 | College Education—A Preparation for What?
A FEW years ago, columnist Bill Reel wrote an article that appeared in the Daily News, a New York City newspaper, in which he presented some sobering facts about college education
“What do you know after four years of higher education?” he asked. “No offense, but you don’t know much. Oh, you might know quite a lot about Romantic poets or Renaissance painters or computer technology or accounting procedures. I hope you learned enough to make a living. . . . But nobody 22 years old knows much. You haven’t lived long enough. Wisdom comes only with age. So get humble.
“You graduate from college with dreams for the future. Sadly, most of your aspirations will turn to ashes. I don’t want to demoralize you, but you might as well hear the truth: When you acquire the possessions you covet, if you acquire them, and when you achieve the successes you pursue, if you achieve them, they won’t satisfy you. Instead, at those very moments when you would expect to be reveling in triumph, you will feel empty rather than fulfilled, depressed rather than elated, agitated rather than peaceful.”
As for the materialistic temptations that would face such college graduates, Reel pointed out “that all the magazines aimed at bright, upscale, affluent young Americans—aimed, in other words, at you—are packed with ads for sleek automobiles and heady alcohol and chic clothes and elaborate stereos and exotic beauty aids. The media hope to suck you into an unceasing orgy of conspicuous consumption. They will try mightily to persuade you that you urgently require what you merely wish for. They will attempt to confuse needs and wants in your impressionable minds.
“Many of you will be seduced by these smooth media manipulators, who are expert at exploiting your defects of character. . . . Your flashy acquisitions will give you no satisfaction whatsoever. Quite the reverse, in fact. The quest for possessions is an insatiable appetite that will sap your soul.” |
School Guidebook (sg)
1992 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/sg | Study 9
Working Up an Outline
1-4. How can the theme and main points of a talk be determined?
1 Said Gospel writer Luke to his friend Theophilus: “I resolved also, because I have traced all things from the start with accuracy, to write them in logical order to you.” (Luke 1:3) So, having done research, having collected an array of facts relating to his subject, he set about organizing them in understandable sequence. It is to our advantage to follow this same practice in preparing our talks. This means working up an outline.
2 Selecting the main thoughts. Since speaking, especially a discussion of God’s Word, is for the purpose of conveying ideas to the mind of another, the thoughts we hope to convey in a talk should be very clearly defined in our own mind first. After you have gathered your material you are in position to determine exactly what it is you want your audience to carry away with them when you are finished. Try to put this into one sentence. If this contains the gist of your talk, if it embodies the one central idea you want your audience to remember, this should serve as a theme for your talk. You will find it helpful to write it down so that you can refer to it during your preparation.
3 Now from the material that you have assembled select the principal ideas necessary to put across this one central theme. These should serve as the main points of the talk. If you have arranged your material on cards, you can place these in sequence on a table before you. Now select other ideas needed to support these main points, putting each one in its proper place following the main point that it upholds. In selecting and putting into place in the outline the various main points and sub-points that have been assembled, it may be observed that some of these do not add materially to the exposition of your theme. If such is the case, do not hesitate to omit them. It is better to do this than to clutter the talk with inconsequential or irrelevant material. Make certain too that the ideas are arranged in the most logical or practical sequence. In following the method suggested here, flaws of continuity are easily seen in the outline and can be corrected. Thus you can see to it that each main heading of the outline follows logically the one preceding it and contributes to the development of the theme. And with every point under those main headings rendering proper support, the talk cannot help but present a logical flow of thought.
4 The points for instruction that you have just organized should constitute the body of your talk. Now you will need an introduction and a conclusion. Decide how you want to open your discussion and, on the basis of the presentation that you have prepared, select a conclusion that will motivate your listeners in harmony with the purpose of your talk. Now you are ready to put this material into a reasonably final form on paper. This can be done in various ways.
5, 6. What is meant by a topical outline? a sentence outline?
5 Types of outlines. The two most common types of outlines are topical and sentence. Frequently a combination of the two is used. To prepare a topical outline, simply note the theme at the top of the page. Then write the main points concisely below the theme, with each main point beginning at the left margin. The sub-points for each main point can be indented, that is, written a little to the right of the margin, under the point they support. If any of these sub-points have additional points to support them, they can be indented still farther. You can now see by a quick glance at your paper which points are the outstanding ones that carry the main ideas that you want your audience to understand. This is helpful in delivering a talk because you can put emphasis on these, repeating the key words in each main idea as you speak so that they are emphasized and will make a more lasting impression. Do this with each main point as you discuss it. Emphasis in this type of outline is on brevity of expression for any given point.
6 The other common form is the sentence outline. In this type of outline, all your different ideas are usually stated as complete sentences but condensed so that each sentence constitutes the main idea of a paragraph for the talk. Some of these sentences, of course, may be indented under others to make the main points of the talk stand out. In delivery sometimes the sentence is read by the speaker and then elaborated on extemporaneously. Both kinds of outlines have their advantages. The sentence outline, with its fuller expression of ideas, is usually better for talks that are worked up weeks in advance or that are given repeatedly, but with intervals of several months, as with public talks.
7, 8. For the actual delivery of the talk, what might you do with your outline?
7 You may use either kind of outline, the sentence or the topical, for your preliminary outline, and it can be as complete as you desire. In this way you will be certain to include all the finer points that you would like your audience to receive. However, for delivery of the talk a briefer outline is preferred by some. As you prepare your talk for delivery you might have both outlines before you. Practice with the condensed version until the points you have included in it call to mind all the more detailed points that you have on your preliminary outline. When you can bring these points to mind from the condensed outline, you are ready to deliver the talk.
8 These are, in brief, the highlights of working up an outline. Now it would be to our advantage to consider in more detail the three main divisions of a talk.
9-12. (a) What is the purpose of the introduction of a talk? (b) Give an example of one type of introduction.
9 Introduction. The purpose of the introductory remarks should be to arouse the interest of your listeners. Those opening sentences should stimulate their interest in your subject and help them to see why it is of importance to them. The first sentence in particular deserves careful thought. It is vital that it constitute a pleasant contact with listeners and not be dogmatic or antagonistic.
10 There are many types of introductions. An illustration might be used, or reference might be made to some quotation that is familiar to those listening. You might introduce a problem that needs solution. The historical background of the subject might form an introduction of itself. A series of questions might be propounded. You might even briefly tell the main points that you are going to cover.
11 It is important that the introduction fit the talk well. Thus a striking illustration can be very effective, especially if the speaker draws on it throughout his talk. This will not only help to make the talk more interesting and easier to follow and remember, but also aid in coherence, provided the illustration is well chosen.
12 The delivery of the introduction will have much to do with the degree of interest the audience will show. The speaker must launch into his talk with a firm, confident tone, and with no stumbling or hesitancy of expression. For this reason some speakers find it helpful actually to write out the first sentence or two of their talk, to assure a smooth start.
13-16. (a) Explain how the body of a talk might be developed. (b) How should the timing of a talk influence preparation of the body?
13 The body of the talk. There are many ways in which the body of your talk can be developed. You may want to present the points of less importance first and then work up to a climax, with the strongest points stated last. Material may also be presented chronologically, as in the discourse recorded at Acts 7:2-53. Partitioning a talk into main sections on the basis of the main lines of development of the overall theme is another good method. For example, if the theme were “A Ransom from Death,” you might develop it under such main points as “How Death Came to Be,” “Humankind Unable to Produce a Ransom,” “Who Only Could Produce It, and Why,” and “Blessings from Ransom Provided.”
14 At times you may find that your talk can be divided into natural classifications, as in the case of Paul’s giving instructions first to the whole congregation, then to wives, next to husbands and then to children. (See Ephesians, chapters 5 and 6.) Or you may find that your material lends itself to development according to cause and effect, or to that which states a problem and then brings forward the solution. At times two or more of these methods can be combined effectively.
15 Straight narration of events, without necessarily introducing chronology, is a very common method of development of a talk. Descriptive material often adds much to a talk. Still other talks can be outlined interestingly on the basis of an argument pro and con concerning some active issue of the day.
16 With consideration for the time element, do not cram your outline with too much material. Good material loses value if insufficient time has been allowed for its development. Besides, a person does not have to tell everything he knows on a subject on one occasion. Perhaps other angles of the same subject theme can be developed at some other time. Assign appropriate amounts of time to each main point in your talk and then realistically adjust the amount of material to fit that time. What counts is not quantity of material but rather its quality.
17-20. Why are conclusions important, and in what ways might they be developed?
17 The conclusion. The closing portion of any talk deserves considerable attention in the way of preparation. It is intended to bring together all the points of the argument in the body of the talk and focus them in such a manner as to convince the hearers and motivate them to action in harmony with such conviction. At the same time it should be short and very much to the point.
18 There are several forms from which you may choose according to the theme that you have developed. You may summarize the main points of the talk in logical sequence, leading unmistakably to the conclusion that must follow. Or you may use a conclusion of application, showing the listener how the information applies to him, and what he can do as a result of the information presented. With some talks, and particularly with sermons given in the house-to-house ministry, it is best to have a conclusion that motivates. It can encourage the householder, for example, to accept literature or to agree to arrangements for a Bible study in his home.
19 The conclusion may also be one of climax, working up to the key point that must be left in the mind of the listener. In order to wrap up the talk effectively, it is also appropriate to tie in the conclusion with something mentioned in the introduction. One might refer back to some opening illustration or quotation. The urgency of reaching and following some decision is often featured in the conclusion. A prime example is the words of Joshua winding up his farewell speech shortly before his death.—Josh. 24:14, 15.
20 It may be seen, then, that a well-outlined talk must provide an attention-arousing introduction. It should include logical development of carefully selected key points that support the theme. And it should have a conclusion that motivates listeners to act in harmony with the Scriptural counsel offered. All of these elements must be prepared for when the outline is being worked up. Skillful outlining of your talk can save time for you, and it contributes much toward a talk that is meaningful and that lastingly impresses valuable instruction on the minds of those who hear it. |
How Do You View Your Fellowman? | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101977000 | How Do You View Your Fellowman?
“I BECAME so down on people and life in general that drinking and drugs were the only things I looked forward to,” said a young woman who grew up in Los Angeles. The way in which she viewed others had definitely influenced her way of life. While you may never have come to the point of being so adversely affected by other people, you doubtless appreciate that a very negative attitude toward others can rob one of joy.
To be happy, we need to feel that we are wanted, appreciated and loved by others. We need friends who deeply care about us, for they can do much to enrich our lives. However, if we have been bitterly disappointed by acquaintances who proved themselves to be disloyal and selfish, we may feel afraid to reach out in making friends. It’s natural not to want to be hurt again. Yet this provides no real solution. To protect himself from emotional hurt, the individual may draw himself into his shell and, in doing so, become isolated and lonely. Then he may try to escape from the harsh realities of life by means of alcohol or drugs.
This illustrates the importance of not letting bad experiences cause one to give up making any further efforts to find genuine friends. The fact that there are many selfish and unkind people does not mean that everyone is that way.
Of course, the likelihood of having unpleasant experiences can increase if a person tries to choose friends from a very small circle. He may confine his choice to people of a certain age group, social standing or national, racial or tribal background. Because of certain prejudices, he may refuse to extend the hand of friendship beyond this. He may view with distrust and suspicion persons outside the group that he might contemplate as deserving of his friendship. Then, when he has unpleasant experiences with those whom he thought would be good friends, he may come to look upon the “outsiders” with even greater distrust and suspicion.
Clearly, a wholesome view of our fellowmen is far better. And the Bible is most helpful in showing us what our attitude toward others should be.
From the Scriptures we learn that our Creator is not partial. We read: “God is not partial, but in every nation the man that fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him.”—Acts 10:34, 35.
Accordingly, we would expect to find trustworthy and loyal friends among those who are fearers of God and workers of righteousness in all tribes, nations and races. And this is exactly so. The fact that people may differ in disposition, customs and habits should, therefore, not cause one to shy away from them. At times contrasts in personality can strike a complementary balance, bringing out the better qualities of both. Thinking may be stimulated, new horizons may be opened up, and a greater awareness of other people’s needs may result.
When a person is guided in his choice of companions by God’s impartial view of people, he will not try to make friends on the basis of what people have. Rather, he will look at what they are as persons. Are they kind, considerate, understanding and sympathetic? Do they build others up by word and action? Qualities of this kind are a far better basis for friendship than what a person might have in the way of possessions or influence.
The Christian disciple James pointed out that assessing the worth of a person by outward appearances is actually wicked. This was a trap that certain Christians had fallen into and, therefore, James told them: “If a man with gold rings on his fingers and in splendid clothing enters into a gathering of you, but a poor man in filthy clothing also enters, yet you look with favor upon the one wearing the splendid clothing and say: ‘You take this seat here in a fine place,’ and you say to the poor one: ‘You keep standing,’ or: ‘Take that seat there under my footstool,’ you have class distinctions among yourselves and you have become judges rendering wicked decisions.”—Jas. 2:2-4.
To favor others merely on the basis of prominence, superior educational background or financial standing would be out of harmony with this excellent counsel. Besides, could a relationship stemming from such factors really endure the test of time? What if the individual came into disgrace or lost his riches? What if he also were just interested in what he could get out of a particular friendship? A Bible proverb states frankly: “Even to his fellowman one who is of little means is an object of hatred, but many are the friends of the rich person.” (Prov. 14:20) Yes, friendships based on material considerations can quickly dissolve.
Another factor that should not be overlooked is that a harsh, unloving attitude is often common among many rich and influential persons. Surely they do not deserve special attention merely on the basis of what they have. On the other hand, if such persons show themselves to be kind and loving as fearers of God, they should be treated considerately like any other godly man or woman.
The person who looks at fellow humans from the standpoint of what he can do for them, instead of what he can get from them, will be far less likely to experience disappointment. A basic reason for this is that “there is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.”—Acts 20:35.
Hence, the individual who is actively concerned about others, regardless of what they may or may not be able to do for him, does not become bitter. He also has satisfaction in knowing that his real reward will come, not from man, but from God. Jesus Christ gave this assurance: “When you spread a feast, invite poor people, crippled, lame, blind; and you will be happy, because they have nothing with which to repay you. For you will be repaid in the resurrection of the righteous ones.”—Luke 14:13, 14.
In time, the embittered woman who grew up in Los Angeles came to appreciate that following the Bible’s guidelines can change one’s view of fellow humans for the better. Now she is no longer unduly upset with other people but is doing what she can to help them to come into an approved relationship with Jehovah God. This woman rejoices at having found genuine friends among those who are trying to live in harmony with God’s Word.
Has this been your experience? If not, why not check into what the Bible says and see for yourself whether your life can become richer and more meaningful? |
Happy Life (hl)
2013 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/hl | INTRODUCTION
WHO ARE JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES?
Our name comes from the Scriptures: “‘You are my witnesses,’ is the utterance of Jehovah.”—Isaiah 43:10.
In more than 230 lands and in some 630 languages, we bear witness about the true God and his loving purpose for mankind as set out in the Scriptures.
We are not part of Christendom’s churches; nor are we part of Judaism or Islam.
We do not ask for money.
We recognize that religious matters are sensitive and personal and that each individual must do his own thinking on religious questions.
Questions this brochure addresses:
What do we need to be happy?
How can God’s guidance bring us happiness now?
What hope do we have for future happiness?
What was God’s original purpose for man?
When will God’s promises come true?
What blessings will the Messiah bring? |
Teachings That Give Hope | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102021009 | Teachings That Give Hope
God has promised exciting changes for the near future. He is going to end suffering and make life on earth a delight for the human family. (Psalm 37:11) Why can we believe this promise? Because “God is not a mere man who tells lies.” (Numbers 23:19) Consider some of the good things that our Creator will do.
God Will Remove Wicked People
“When the wicked sprout like weeds and all the wrongdoers flourish, it is that they may be annihilated forever.”—PSALM 92:7.
As we learned in the preceding article, evil keeps increasing. This should not surprise us. After all, it was foretold in the Bible at 2 Timothy 3:1-5 that during “the last days” people would be exceptionally bad. The last days of what? Of the present world of ungodly people. Soon, God will bring an end to those who refuse to change their bad ways. Then, only good people—those who obey God—will be left. “The righteous will possess the earth, and they will live forever on it.”—Psalm 37:29.
God Will Destroy Satan
“The God who gives peace will crush Satan.”—ROMANS 16:20.
With all the wicked gone, including Satan and the demons, peace will at last prevail earth wide. Our Creator promises: “No one will make [you] afraid.”—Micah 4:4.
God Will End Sickness and Death
“The tent of God is with mankind . . . And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore.”—REVELATION 21:3, 4.
Suffering and sickness will end because God will undo all the harm caused by Satan, Adam, Eve, and our own imperfections. As a result, even “death will be no more.” Humans who love and obey the Creator will live forever. But where will they live?
Our Creator Will Make the Earth Into a Paradise
“The wilderness and the parched land will exult, and the desert plain will be joyful and blossom as the saffron.”—ISAIAH 35:1.
When God brings an end to the wicked, the earth will thrive! It will abound with delightful parks and gardens, and it will produce plenty of food. (Psalm 72:16) The oceans, lakes, and rivers will be clean and teem with life. Even the word “pollution” may disappear from our vocabulary! People will live in homes they built and own. And never again will anyone be homeless, hungry, or poor.—Isaiah 65:21, 22.
God Will Bring the Dead Back to Life
“There is going to be a resurrection.”—ACTS 24:15.
Would you like to see your dead loved ones again? The almighty God will bring them back to life—or resurrect them—in Paradise on earth. You will recognize them, and they will recognize you. Imagine your joy and theirs! Why can we be sure of this hope? Because the Bible gives us examples of adults and children who were brought back to life and reunited with their families. Moreover, Jesus often resurrected the dead in front of many witnesses.—Luke 8:49-56; John 11:11-14, 38-44.
Now I Am Truly Happy
“I remember the first time I heard about a paradise earth free from suffering, sickness, and death. In my heart I laughed, thinking that this can’t be true! But my study of the Bible gave me reasons to trust this unique book and its promises. I am convinced that the Bible is from God. In the past, I often had a worried, sad expression on my face. Now I am truly happy. Even my family and friends can see the difference in me.”—Ravi.
Learn more:
To learn more about the Creator’s purpose for humans to live forever on a paradise earth, go to jw.org and look under BIBLE TEACHINGS > BIBLE QUESTIONS ANSWERED > LIFE & DEATH. |
Greatest Man (gt)
1991 | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/gt | Chapter 22
Four Disciples Are Called
AFTER the murderous attempt on Jesus’ life in his hometown of Nazareth, he moves to the city of Capernaum near the Sea of Galilee. This fulfills another prophecy of Isaiah. It is the one that foretold that people of Galilee dwelling by the sea would see a great light.
As Jesus carries on his light-bearing work of Kingdom preaching here, he locates four of his disciples. These had traveled with him earlier but went back to their fishing business when they returned with Jesus from Judea. Likely, Jesus now searches them out, since it is time to have steady, regular helpers whom he can train to carry on the ministry after he is gone.
So as Jesus is walking along the seashore and sees Simon Peter and his companions washing their nets, he goes over to them. He climbs into Peter’s boat and asks him to pull away from land. When they get out a little distance, Jesus sits down in the boat and begins teaching the crowds on the shore.
Afterward, Jesus says to Peter: “Pull out to where it is deep, and you men let down your nets for a catch.”
“Instructor,” Peter replies, “for a whole night we toiled and took nothing, but at your bidding I will lower the nets.”
When the nets are lowered, such a great multitude of fish are caught that the nets begin to rip. Urgently, the men motion to their partners in a boat nearby to come and help. Soon both boats are filled with so many fish that they begin to sink. Seeing this, Peter falls down before Jesus and says: “Depart from me, because I am a sinful man, Lord.”
“Stop being afraid,” Jesus answers. “From now on you will be catching men alive.”
Jesus also invites Peter’s brother Andrew. “Come after me,” he urges them, “and I will make you fishers of men.” Their fishing partners James and John, the sons of Zebedee, are given the same invitation, and they too respond without hesitation. So these four abandon their fishing business and become the first four of Jesus’ steady, regular followers. Luke 5:1-11; Matthew 4:13-22; Mark 1:16-20; Isaiah 9:1, 2.
▪ Why does Jesus call his disciples to follow him, and who are these?
▪ What miracle frightens Peter?
▪ What type of fishing does Jesus invite his disciples to do? |
The Amazing World of Insects | https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102000006 | The Amazing World of Insects
BY AWAKE! CORRESPONDENT IN SPAIN
DO YOU think that insects are nothing more than a nuisance? Would you like the world to be free of these annoying pests? Do you spray them, swat them, or step on them at every opportunity? Before declaring war on every bug that crosses your path, why not try to learn something about their world? After all, with a population that outnumbers humans by about 200,000,000 to 1, you can be sure that insects are here to stay!
A brief look at just a few of these amazing creatures might well convince you that insects deserve your respect.
Masters of Flight, Marvels of Sight
Many insects are masters of flight. Consider some examples. Mosquitoes can fly upside down. Some can even fly through the rain without getting wet—yes, actually dodging the raindrops! Some tropical wasps and bees buzz around at speeds of up to 45 miles [72 km] per hour. One monarch butterfly of North America logged 1,870 miles [3,010 km] on its migration flight. Hover flies can beat their wings more than a thousand times per second—much faster than hummingbirds. Dragonflies can fly backward, a fact that has stimulated the curiosity—and close study—of researchers.
If you have ever tried to swat a fly, you know that these insects have exceptionally keen eyesight, which is coupled with a reflex that is ten times quicker than ours. Interestingly, the fly has a compound eye, containing thousands of six-sided lenses, each of which works independently. Likely, then, the fly’s view is broken up into tiny bits.
Some insects can perceive ultraviolet light, which is invisible to humans. Thus, what looks to us like a dull white butterfly is anything but dull to the male butterfly. Indeed, when seen in ultraviolet light, the female has attractive patterns that are ideal for grabbing the attention of courting males.
The eyes of many insects serve as a compass. Bees and wasps, for instance, can detect the plane of polarized light, enabling them to locate the sun’s position in the sky—even when it is hidden by clouds. Thanks to this ability, these insects can forage far from their nests and still find their way home unerringly.
Love Is in the Air
In the insect world, sounds and aromas are often used to find a mate—no small achievement if your life span is just a matter of weeks and prospective mates are few and far between.
Female emperor moths find a suitor by emitting a scent that is so potent that a male can home in on its source from nearly seven miles [11 km] away. His sensitive antennas can detect a single molecule of the scent.
Crickets, grasshoppers, and cicadas prefer to make themselves heard. Even we humans can hear the amorous cicada, as it converts its whole body into a sounding board. Why, a large group of courting cicadas can create a din that is louder than a pneumatic drill! In contrast, some females make no sound at all.
Waking Up and Warming Up
For humans who live in a cool climate, keeping warm is important. The same is true for cold-blooded insects that wake up each morning virtually frozen stiff. The sun is their ally, and they make the most of it.
Flies and beetles are attracted to flowers or leaves that bathe in the warmth of the sun during the early morning hours. Some beetles frequent Australian water lilies that act like botanical stoves, heating up their blossoms as much as 36 degrees Fahrenheit [20°C.] higher than the surrounding temperature. In contrast, butterflies have a built-in heating system. When they need to warm up, they open their wings, which serve as efficient solar panels, and incline them toward the sun.
You Name It, Insects Do It!
In the insect world, nearly every species has a different role, some of which are quite bizarre. Some moths, for example, seek life-giving salt and moisture by sucking the tears of buffalo. Other insects, equipped with a potent antifreeze, inhabit freezing mountaintops and spend their lives scavenging bugs that have succumbed to the cold.
As wise King Solomon observed thousands of years ago, the ant is particularly industrious. Solomon wrote: “Go to the ant, you lazy one; see its ways and become wise. Although it has no commander, officer or ruler, it prepares its food even in the summer; it has gathered its food supplies even in the harvest.” (Proverbs 6:6-8) The absence of a ruler is all the more remarkable considering that some colonies of ants may number upwards of 20 million! Yet, this insect “metropolis” functions perfectly, with each ant performing its specific task, so that the entire colony is supplied with food, protection, and housing.
Perhaps the most impressive example of insect housing is the termite mound. Some of them stand 25 feet [7.5 m] tall.a These marvels of construction come with sophisticated air-conditioning and underground fungus gardens. Even more amazing, the termites that build these towering pyramids are blind!
Why We Need Insects
Insects play a vital role in our daily life. Indeed, about 30 percent of the foods we eat depend on pollination by bees, most of which are wild bees. But pollination is only one of the useful labors performed by insects. Insects keep the earth clean by means of an efficient recycling system, as they reprocess dead plants and animals. Thus, the soil is enriched, and nutrients that are liberated can make things grow. “Without insects,” writes entomologist Christopher O’Toole in his book Alien Empire, “we would be inundated with dead plant and animal material.”
Insects are sorely missed when their work is not done. Consider what happened in Australia, which has become home to millions of cattle. Herds inevitably scatter dung everywhere. Besides being unsightly, the manure provided a breeding site for the bush fly—a plague to both humans and cattle. So dung beetles were imported from Europe and Africa. The problem was solved!
Friends or Foes?
Admittedly, some insects eat crops and carry disease. But only about 1 percent of the world’s insects are considered pests, and many of these do more damage because of the way man himself has altered the environment. The malaria-carrying mosquito, for example, rarely bothers the native people who live in the equatorial forest. It does wreak havoc, though, on towns bordering the forest, where stagnant water abounds.
Often, man can naturally control insect pests that attack crops, either by rotating crops or by introducing or conserving natural predators. Lowly ladybugs and lacewings effectively control plagues of aphids. And in Southeast Asia, public-health workers discovered that a couple of dragonfly larvae could keep a water-storage container free of mosquito larvae.
Even with their drawbacks, then, insects are an integral part of the natural world on which we depend. As Christopher O’Toole points out, while insects can survive without us, “we cannot survive without them.”
[Footnote]
a For humans, the equivalent would be a skyscraper that stands six miles [more than 9 km] high.
[Box/Pictures on page 16, 17]
METAMORPHOSIS—A New Look, a New Life-Style
Some insects totally revamp their appearance through a process called metamorphosis—literally, “change in form.” The changes can be quite dramatic. Maggots change into flies, caterpillars into butterflies, and aquatic larvae into airborne dragonflies. Hundreds of thousands of insects undergo metamorphosis.
To produce such a transformation—comparable to converting a train into an airplane—huge modifications must take place inside the insect’s body. Consider the butterfly, for example. While the caterpillar is dormant in the chrysalis, most of its previous tissues and body organs break down and a whole set of new adult organs—such as wings, eyes, and antennas—develop.
Often, the transformation involves taking on a new life-style. For example, while in the larval stage, the dragonfly captures small fish or tadpoles; but when it becomes a free-flying adult, it changes its diet to insects. This is the equivalent of a man spending his first 20 years swimming in the sea and the rest of his life flying around like a bird.
Could evolution orchestrate these incredible transformations? How could a caterpillar simply appear on the scene, programmed to transform itself into a butterfly? For that matter, which came first—the caterpillar or the butterfly? One cannot exist without the other, for only the butterfly breeds and lays eggs.
Surely, the process of metamorphosis gives convincing evidence of a Master Designer, the one whom the Bible identifies as the Creator of all things, Almighty God.—Psalm 104:24; Revelation 4:11.
[Pictures]
Newly emerged from its pupa, the swallowtail stretches its wings
[Pictures on page 18]
Above: Pollen-eating beetle
Above right: A dew-covered leaf beetle warming up
Far right: Rhinoceros beetle
[Picture on page 18]
African short-horned grasshopper
[Picture on page 18]
Horsefly |
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